ON ISLAM: CAIRO – Hosting an iftar to mark the holy fasting month of Ramadan, US President Barack Obama has used the occasion to honor American Muslims and their contributions to their country.
“Like so many faiths, Islam has always been part of our American family, and Muslim Americans have long contributed to the strength and character of our country, in all walks of life,” Obama told members of the diplomatic corps and prominent Muslim figures at a Ramadan iftar the White House on Wednesday, August 10, The Time reported.
“This has been especially true over the past 10 years.”
Obama said many Muslims lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks by Al-Qaeda movement.
"They were taken from us much too soon,” Obama said.
“And today, they live on in the love of their families and a nation that will never forget.”
Obama said many Muslims raced to offer help to those injured in the attacks.
“Muslim Americans were first responders…the EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) who evacuated so many to safety; the nurse who tended to so many victims; the naval officer at the Pentagon who rushed into the flames and pulled the injured to safety.
“On this 10th anniversary, we honor these men and women for what they are — American heroes.”
Obama has hosted an Iftar each year since he assumed office in 2009. » | Thursday, August 11, 2011
