To all gathered here,
My name is Francis Coté and it is my privilege to address you today. And receive this plaque for placement on the wonderful tree planted here to commemorate our son Jon.
On November 16, 2006, my son Jonathon was kidnapped in southern Iraq along with three other Americans and an Austrian citizen. Jonathon was a veteran who served in the US Army, 82nd Airborne Unit and had completed tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. The others kidnapped with Jon were also veterans.
In April of this year, after a 17 month wait, we learned that Jonathon had been killed along with the others.
Although Jonathon and the others were working as security contractors when they were kidnapped, they were providing vital services to the war effort. That is, to the war on terrorism.
You see, although Jon did not die on September 11, 2001, he too was a victim of terrorism.
On September 11th, 2001, the citizens of our great country saw that vast oceans or great distances could no longer keep us safe. I for one am glad that our Commander in Chief made a decision on that day that America will not wait to be attacked again.
We’re winning the war on terror. Our nation is safer because citizens like Jon are willing to put on the uniform and defend our freedom. The service of our military men and women, along with private contractors assisting in the war effort, serve with courage and determination and they’re bringing us to victory in the global war on terror. Their work is vital to the security of our country and the peace of the world.
We cannot let the fact that America hasn’t been attacked since 2001, lull us into an illusion that the threats to our nation have disappeared. America remains at risk, so we must remain vigilant. We must remain on the offensive. We must hunt down the terrorists and we must never rest until this threat to the American people is removed. But victory will require more courage and sacrifice. Brave Americans like Jon have given their lives for this cause that is just and necessary for the security of our country. Their sacrifice has spared millions from lives of tyranny and sorrow. We must honor their sacrifice by completing the mission. We have to fight and win. We have to be certain that America remains a free and sovereign nation.
Thank you for being here today and may God bless America!
