Community Corner

Osama bin Laden Killed in Pakistan

President Obama announced the extraordinary news late tonight.

President Barack Obama has announced that Osama bin Laden, the al-Qaida leader who masterminded the Sept. 11 attacks, is dead.

Obama addressed the nation during a late-night press conference in which he said an American military operation killed bin Laden in Pakistan where he was believed to be hiding for nearly a decade.

Obama said a small team of Americans were able to kill the al-Qaida leader and recover his body. The intelligence community apparently began receiving information on bin Laden’s whereabouts last August and were able to track him down to the compound in Pakistan.

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Obama said he authorized the “targeted operation” today after receiving credible information on bid Laden’s location. None of the military personnel involved was injured, Obama said.

“Today’s achievement is a testament to the greatness of our country, and the determination of the American people,” Obama said “The cause of securing our country is not complete, but we are once again reminded that America can do whatever we set our mind to.”

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Still, Obama warned that today’s development does not mean the country does not face dangers.

“His death does not mark the end of our effort,” Obama said. “We must and we will remain vigilant at home and abroad.”

Nearly 3,000 people died on Sept. 11, 2001 when four hijacked airliners crashed into the World Trade Center Towers, the Pentagon and a field in rural Somerset County.

“The images of 9/11 are seared into our national memory.... Nearly 3,000 citizens (were) taken from us, leaving a gaping hole in our hearts,” Obama said.


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