America's Debt to Its Diplomatic, Military, and Intelligence Personnel

The deaths in Benghazi, Libya, of the U.S. Ambassador to Libya and others in the service of the United States provides a tragic reminder of the great sacrifices that U.S. diplomatic, military, and intelligence personnel serving abroad make to defend America and its interests around the globe.

In a dangerous world, and especially in the dangerous areas of the Middle East and North Africa, American citizens who volunteer to serve in America's foreign policy agencies and in the U.S. armed forces face risks both from public disorder and intentional attacks by terrorists. Those Americans put their lives on the line to protect their fellow Americans and advance the principles of freedom, opportunity, and free enterprise that America champions in the world.

No grenade blasts, no bomb explosions, and no rain of bullets will stop those in America's diplomatic, military, and intelligence service from accomplishing their missions. Their continuing dedication to service reflects the greatness of America and the dedication of the American people to proceed, as Abraham Lincoln said, "with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right."

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen and with those on the front lines around the world in our diplomatic facilities, military units, and intelligence elements. May God bless all those who serve our country abroad, and may God bless our country's leaders as they work to protect them in these days of danger.