NEW YORK – President Bush has been touring the site of Tuesday’s terrorist attacks in New York City. The president has been viewing the remnants of the World Trade Center, where rain has hampered rescue efforts for much of the day Friday. Earlier, New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani accompanied Mr. Bush on a helicopter tour of the disaster site.
He says rescue workers are still hoping to retrieve survivors from the ruins of World Trade Center. But overnight thunderstorms made the piles of rubble slippery and dangerous for rescue crews. Rain is also expected to slow rescue efforts at the Pentagon, near Washington. Authorities there are looking for 126 people who are missing and feared dead.
Earlier Friday, the president led Americans in observing a national day of prayer and remembrance for the victims of the attacks in New York and Washington. Mr. Bush joined four ex-presidents and scores of dignitaries attending a solemn observance at Washington’s National Cathedral.
In an emotional speech to those assembled at the cathedral, the U.S. leader paid tribute to the victims of Tuesday’s disaster, and offered the nation’s sympathy to families of the dead. Mr. Bush said war has been waged against the United States by stealth, deceit and murder. He said the country will respond with unity, in steadfast resolve to rid the world of evil.
Mr. Bush designated the day as one to honor the memories of the thousands of people who lost their lives. Americans from all walks of life are displaying their country’s flag, in a show of respect and support for those who died. Professional baseball, football, golf and other sporting contests have been postponed or canceled in the wake of the disasters.
