The death of Osama Bin Laden in a daring and courageous military operation presents the American people a unifying victory over an enemy who was the face of the terrorists who killed so many Americans on September 11th, 2001. With all of our difficulty in the political arena this operation shows the world, and the American people, that the United States can still do great things when we set our minds to it. President Obama and the military, as well as our intelligence community, deserve great praise for their hard work and determination to bring Osama Bin Laden to justice. It is a great day for America, and we should celebrate our success while realizing that we will be involved in this fight for some time to come.

The statement from President George W. Bush:

Earlier this evening, President Obama called to inform me that American forces killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of the al Qaeda network that attacked America on September 11, 2001. I congratulated him and the men and women of our military and intelligence communities who devoted their lives to this mission. They have our everlasting gratitude. This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001. The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done.

The statement of President Bill Clinton:

“This is a profoundly important moment not just for the families of those who lost their lives on 9/11 and in al-Qaida’s other attacks but for people all over the world who want to build a common future of peace, freedom, and cooperation for our children.

I congratulate the President, the National Security team and the members of our armed forces on bringing Osama bin Laden to justice after more than a decade of murderous al-Qaida attacks.”