Ground Zero Bullhorn Speech

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Ground Zero Bullhorn Speech (2001)
by George Walker Bush

On September 14, 2001, President Bush climbed atop the rubble at Ground Zero in New York City and spoke to rescue workers through a bullhorn. He required the assistance of a firefighter for balance. The words written here are transcribed from an audiovisual record of that appearance.

1450450Ground Zero Bullhorn Speech2001George Walker Bush

President Bush: Thank you all. I want you all to know -- it [the bullhorn] can't go any louder -- I want you all to know that America today, America today is on bended knee, in prayer for the people whose lives were lost here, for the workers who worked here, for the families who mourn. This nation stands with the good people of New York City and New Jersey and Connecticut as we mourn the loss of thousands of our citizens.

Rescue worker: George, we can't hear you!

President Bush: I can hear you! I can hear you! The rest of the world hears you! And the people -- and the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon!

Rescue workers: [chanting] U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!...

President Bush: The nation -- The nation sends its love and compassion --

Rescue worker: God bless America!

President Bush: -- to everybody who is here. Thank you for your hard work. Thank you for making the nation proud, and may God bless America.

Rescue workers: [chanting] U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!...