I thought this was very eloquent:

September 11 2004, marks the third observance of Patriot Day. Our flag will be flown at half-staff on Sept 11, remembering and honoring the more than 3,000 innocent victims who perished in the terrorist attacks in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania. While the memories of that terrible morning will stay with each of us, it is important to recall how Americans responded, and to try to recapture the spirit of national unity that ensued.

Here in Washington, many of us saw and smelled the acrid smoke flowing south from the Pentagon, and saw the fighters flying air cover over the Potomac River. We also witnessed a new level of patriotism -- with heroism and selflessness; with compassion and courage; and with prayer and hope.

Following that terrible day, Americans gathered to light candles, to pray, and to volunteer. Here at the Laboratory, we donated blood, and collected relief supplies to provide immediate support to those in need. We have seen America's sons and daughters deployed to defend our freedom. And in the three years since 9/11, we have rolled up our sleeves to provide technology solutions to help our warfighters and first responders as they respond to the challenges of the global war on
terrorism.

Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt stated that, "Freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved." Today, millions of people from many nations around the world stand united behind one ideal - that the destructive agendas of the enemies of freedom shall never eclipse the light of liberty. And from the tragedy of September 11, we emerged a stronger Nation, renewed by a spirit of national pride and a true love of country.

Those whom we lost on September 11 and the ensuing fight for freedom will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts and in our Nation's history. As we mark the third anniversary of that tragic day, we remember their sacrifice, and continue our commitment to honoring their
memory by pursuing peace and justice in the world and security at home.

CAPT David M. Schubert, USN
Commanding Officer
Naval Research Laboratory