Much of Queens was already in bed by the time news of Osama bin Laden’s death reached the airwaves. President Barack Obama had ordered the strike against the terrorist early in the afternoon on Sunday – by Monday morning, many elected officials from Queens had issued statements.
Governor Andrew Cuomo:
"The death of Osama bin Laden is a historic moment that represents a major step in our country’s efforts to defeat terrorism around the world and should bring a sense of justice to the victims of 9/11 and his other attacks.
"We will never forget those who were lost, their families and those who risked their lives to save others.
"New Yorkers endured bin Laden’s most devastating and destructive attack, and his death brings back the horrific images and emotions of that terrible day. However, his death also reminds us of our strength, courage, and unity as a people in our response to his actions.
"The Administration’s vigilance and dedication to hunt down Osama bin Laden has never wavered and I applaud their commitment to this cause. I also applaud our men and women in uniform who have fought tirelessly against terrorism and to defend freedom.
"The threat to our state and our nation unfortunately does not die with Osama bin Laden. We must remain vigilant in preventing terror acts and continue to do everything to keep our state and nation safe and secure."
Councilmember Peter F. Vallone Jr.
“I congratulate our military for proving once again that you can run but you can’t hide from justice.” Vallone also cautioned that Al Qaeda consists of many independent cells, some of which were found right here in Queens, and therefore we cannot lessen our guard one iota.
Congressmember Carolyn Maloney:
“The announcement by the President was a truly historic moment after one of the most tumultuous decades in modern times.
“It comes as welcome news to those who lives were ripped apart by attacks of 9/11. As we approach the 10th anniversary of that terrible day, this is also a solemn moment to reflect and remember. Nearly 3,000 men, women, and children died in New York City alone, due directly to orders issued by Osama bin Laden. His death will help bring a measure of closure to our city and it represents the end of a chapter in a larger story still to be written.
“There is more healing that must take place, more rebuilding that must be accomplished, and there are many still struggling to fully recover.
“But tyrants are falling in the Middle East and freedom has made progress. And with this announcement I can hear my city breathing a sigh of relief.”
State Senator Malcolm Smith:
“May 1, 2011 is a day that all Americans will remember as the end of a dark era in our country’s history. Exactly eight years after our former President prematurely declared: "Mission Accomplished," this president has delivered on the promise to capture Osama bin Laden and bring justice to the families of those who lost their lives on 9/11/01. I applaud the efforts by President Obama, our National Intelligence agencies, and our international partners in this effort. Although the death of Osama bin Laden will not bring back to life any of his innocent victims, we as Americans, can take solace in knowing that Al Qaeda is no more.”
Senator Jose Peralta:
“The world is a safer place today thanks to the courageous men and women fighting around the globe in defense of our freedom and the determination of their commander in chief, President Obama. Amidst the joy on this great day for the United States, we should keep in our thoughts and prayers the thousands of victims of Osama bin Laden’s depravity and hate. I hope that this is a day of at least some solace for their loved ones.”
Assemblymember Aravella Simotas:
“This is a moment of redemption for those of us who lost loved ones in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. I’m deeply proud as a New Yorker and an American, and grateful to our armed forces for the bravery and skill they displayed in bringing a mass-murderer and enemy of peace to justice.”
Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano:
"Osama bin Laden was responsible for killing 343 members of the FDNY on September 11, 2001. Tonight, in firehouses throughout the city, our members are grateful for the news, and thankful to all the brave members of the US. military that had a role in this successful operation."
Police Commissioner Ray Kelly:
"The death of Osama bin Laden is a welcome milestone for the friends and families of those killed on 9/11, and for all who remain tenaciously engaged in protecting New York from another attack."
City Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer:
“The death of Osama bin Laden is a watershed moment in the fight against terror and testament to the tireless efforts of our military and intelligence community. I commend President Obama and his administration for this significant victory that will help to ensure the safety of all Americans. We owe a debt of gratitude to the members of the Armed Forces and intelligence community that bravely serve each day in defense of our nation. Justice being served to bin Laden will hopefully bring some measure of relief and closure for those who lost loved ones on 9/11.”
Congressmember Gary Ackerman:
“Justice has been done. After so many years of effort, the killing of Osama bin Laden represents a huge victory for the United States and proof that no matter how hard they try, our foes cannot hide from us. Osama bin Laden chose to make war against America. And today, we can take satisfaction that we have answered him in kind. The head of the Al-Qaeda worm has been cut off. But we must remember worms grow new heads.
Although this is a gratifying occasion and a crucial psychological boost for all Americans, we must remember that our enemies remain determined to attack us, despite this powerful and demoralizing blow.
President Obama, his national security team, and the many intelligence and military professionals who developed the intelligence and executed this operation deserve the thanks of the entire nation. The more we learn about this amazing and daring mission, the more certain it becomes that it will be remembered among the most remarkable feats of arms in American history.
As we approach the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I hope this long-awaited success will provide some comfort and relief to those who lost loved ones on that terrible day.”
Councilmember Dan Halloran:
“Today is a day for all New Yorkers and Americans to celebrate. The man who tried to tear our city apart 10 years ago has been brought to justice. My cousin, FDNY Lieutenant Vincent Halloran, was one of the hundreds of firefighters to fall in the Towers. Today I will remember him and the many other victims of Osama bin Laden’s violence. The families of the victims can finally enjoy some degree of closure.”
State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr.:
"My first thoughts went to the families of those we lost on 9/11 – hopefully they get some sort of closure; then, they went to the military – we appreciate all their work in keeping our country safe; and then my thoughts turned to safety. We must keep vigilant in guarding against every terror attack, especially in New York."
