NDIA statement on the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001

ARLINGTON, VA -- The National Defense Industrial Association offers this statement on the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001:

Twenty years ago, several current NDIA leaders served on active duty and found themselves in positions they couldn’t have imagined on American soil. Arming fighters with weapons and setting rules of engagement to shoot down threats were not unusual actions, but doing so to defend the United States’ own airspace was. The terrorists’ actions were incomprehensible, the loss of thousands immensely painful.

Twenty years later, the NDIA team continues to be at the heart of the mission. We solemnly remember those lost on Sept. 11, 2001, along with those who served and sacrificed to prevent future attacks. Our hope is that our work to maintain a resilient, robust and innovative defense industrial base serves to bolster the security of our nation, while honoring the memories and service of all who sacrifice for America’s freedom.