U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Brandon), who represents Florida’s 16th district in Congress, issued a statement marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Buchanan reflected on his experience at the Sarasota–Bradenton Airport on that day and shared memories of President Bush’s response.
“I was at the Sarasota–Bradenton Airport that day to meet with President Bush after his visit to a local elementary school. Instead of meeting with the president, I watched as he rushed to Air Force One to lead our country in its darkest hour.
“I will never forget the resolve he showed in that moment and in the months after, and I proudly display this picture in my office as a reminder: we must never bow to those who seek to divide us.
“America’s darkest day was 9/11, but its brightest was 9/12. As we reflect on the anniversary of this national tragedy, the heartbreaking death of Charlie Kirk and the deadly shooting in Colorado, I pray that we can come together and stand against violence in all forms.
“May God bless the United States of America.”
Buchanan has served as a member of Congress for Florida’s 16th district since 2007, succeeding Katherine Harris. Before joining Congress, he served in the Florida House of Representatives. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1951 and now lives in Sarasota. Buchanan graduated from Cleary University and later from the University of Detroit Mercy.
