Eight years ago on this day many of us lost our collective innocence – Americans, British, Bermudians and citizens of many other countries lost loved ones.

The unbelievable, the unimaginable happened. Yet we survived and became even stronger in the pursuit and defence of freedom. On this, the eighth anniversary of 9/11, the events of that tragic day are not forgotten. They will never be forgotten.

The years may move inexorably forward from that cataclysmic day, but 9/11 will continue to be a touchstone for all we hold dear.

While today we look back and remember September 11, 2001, we also look forward. We seek to work in a spirit of partnership with people and nations around the world to foster a climate of hope and opportunity.

We believe the ideals of freedom and justice are right and true for people everywhere.

Decades ago, John F. Kennedy said: "The wave of the future is not the conquest of the world by a single dogmatic creed but the liberation of the diverse energies of free nations and free men."

The United States seeks a more peaceful and prosperous world and a better life for people everywhere. We renew our commitment to our founding principle that all people are equal and equally deserving of justice, respect, opportunity and dignity. With others we share a common humanity.

While the colour of our skin, the language we speak or the way we worship may be different, people everywhere aspire to speak their minds, participate in the society, worship freely, live in security and pursue education, jobs and greater opportunities for their families.

Our forebears set sail from England 400 years ago in search of freedom and a better life. Four centuries later we continue to cherish those same values, and fight to keep them alive.

So we thank the men and women who are fighting for freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq.

We thank those in the public service sector – the firemen, the law enforcement, and public safety officers who are there for us each and every day – as they were eight years ago.

To remember those who suffered and died on September 11, the American Consulate will fly its flag at half staff today to mark Patriot Day in the United States.