Local Reaction to Death of Osama bin Laden

Congressman Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), dean of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation and former senior member of the Homeland Security Committee, issued the following statement upon announcement of the death of Osama bin Laden:

“This announcement, only a few months before the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 terrorist attacks, is an enormous milestone in our country’s efforts to combat terrorism. It is a testament to the courageous and relentless work of the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe overseas and here at home.

“Osama Bin Laden was the face of terror against the United States, the personification of the horror of the September 11th attacks. With the life of one of world history’s most evil figures now extinguished, hopefully a measure of relief and healing can come to the families and loved ones of his victims. We will never forget those who perished on 9-11, including those on the two hijacked planes from Logan Airport that crashed into the World Trade Center Towers.

“As our nation moves forward, we must remain vigilant and continue our efforts to detect and deter attacks from al Qaeda and its affiliates around the world.”

Statement of NYC Mayor and Medford Native Michael Bloomberg:

“After September 11, 2001, we gave our word as Americans that we would stop at nothing to capture or kill Osama bin Laden. After the contribution of millions, including so many who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, we have kept that word.

“The killing of Osama bin Laden does not lessen the suffering that New Yorkers and Americans experienced at his hands, but it is a critically important victory for our nation – and a tribute to the millions of men and women in our armed forces and elsewhere who have fought so hard for our nation.

“New Yorkers have waited nearly ten years for this news. It is my hope that it will bring some closure and comfort to all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001.”

Reaction from Fletcher School Professor Richard Shultz

Richard Shultz, director of the International Security Studies Program at the Fletcher School at Tufts University, spoke on the radio Monday morning with WGBH’s Emily Rooney. He spoke about the special operations the US military has used in Iraq and Afghanistan and the US/Pakistan relationship, calling it “troubled” and saying he found it “hard to believe” that Pakistan didn’t know about Osama bin Laden living there. His interview begins at the 36 minute mark in this audio clip.

Immaculate Conception Church: Is it OK to Cheer About Death of bin Laden?

The Immaculate Conception Church of Medford/Malden, a Catholic Church, asks on its blog if, as Christians, it’s OK to cheer about the killing of Osama bin Laden and links to a statement from the Vatican.

– InsideMedford.com