Local Reaction to Osama bin Laden's Death

The news of Osama bin Laden's death has drawn many reactions locally from "Where's the body?" to cautious optimism, and a wait-and-see attitude as the rest of the world reacts.

Rainer Schumann, who was reading the Hartford Courant with the news on its front page at Monday morning, said he did not think bin Laden's death would make a difference. He also wondered about the legality of it all.

Martin Dodd, who was at Monday morning, said he thought bin Laden's death would mean change. He said it could be the U.S. can exit the two wars we are involved in more quickly.

"Osama bin Laden's death after such a long and elusive search brings justice to the families who lost loved ones in the September 11, 2001 attacks and to the people of the United States," said First Selectman Mary Glassman. "The country has been changed forever by the events of that tragic day. As always, we remain watchful and vigilant in the wake of these events."    

"Like most Americans, I am glad that we finally brought him to justice," said Superintendent of Schools Diane Ullman, adding the topic would most likely be discussed in school during current events, which usually takes place in social studies classrooms.

Richard Curtiss, a social studies teacher at Simsbury High School and chairman of the department, said social studies classes watched President Barack Obama’s announcement and teachers and students discussed the event and its meaning for the future.

“Today, I thank God that freedom still rings and that justice prevails. I salute all of the brave men and women involved in this action; I pray for them and for all who serve in our armed forces — they all share in this victory," said Deputy First Selectman John K. Hampton. "I am, of course, mindful of all those who perished on 9/11; we will never forget them and hope this day brings some small measure of comfort to the families left behind. May this moment mark the end of senseless terrorism, the beginning of a gentler tone in our world, and the promise of peace.” 

Congressman Chris Murphy, returning to the United States from Afghanistan, made the following statement on the death of Osama bin Laden:  

"Nothing can ever restore the moral order undone by Osama bin Laden's horrifying attack on the United States on September 11, 2001, but now Americans can sleep easier knowing that a man of true evil no longer walks this earth," Murphy said.  "The killing of bin Laden does not erase the damage he did, but it brings us one giant step closer to justice."  

Murphy was in Afghanistan with a Congressional delegation where he received briefings on special operations in the region from top special operations leadership.  He also met with troops and attended a memorial service for nine Americans, including one from New Haven, who were killed last week.  

"Our country's best and brightest comprise our special operations forces — today we praise their work and grieve again for those who bin Laden killed," Murphy added.

"I've never understood how a man like him (or many others) could convince so many people to kill in the name of religion," said State Rep. Linda Schofield (D-Simsbury). "Now that he is meeting his maker, I'm sure he he is learning that murdering innocent people was not doing God's will. If only his followers could all learn that as well."

"Personally, I am very glad to hear the news as I remember that terrible day like it was yesterday," said School Board Chairman Jack Sennott. "I am hopeful that this news provides the friends and families of the victims of the 9/11 tragedy with some peace and closure. I am also glad for our soldiers who have worked so hard and sacrificed so much during this last 10 years."

U.S. Rep. John Larson, D-1st District, compared it to the death of Adolf Hitler, Sen. Richard Blumenthal called it a historic victory and Gov. Dannel P. Malloy remembered the grim scene in his hometown of Stamford on Sept. 11, 2001.

"As mayor of Stamford on 9/11, I remember waiting on the train platform there as scared, confused, and overwhelmed commuters made their way home, none of us fully understanding what had just happened," Malloy said in a prepared statement released late Sunday. "I also cannot forget the Connecticut residents we lost that day.

"Over the last decade, Connecticut men and women have served our country honorably, and some have made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf. This news is a testament to the hard work, dedication and perseverance of our Armed Forces and our country."

Larson also commended the armed forces and echoed President Obama's call for unity.

"The most wanted man in the world has been brought to justice by the American people. It is a historic moment, rivaled only by the demise of Adolf Hitler," he said in a press release.

"I want to commend President Obama and the men and women in uniform and in our intelligence service for their great efforts. I also want to commend President Bush, who rallied our nation in our moment of need on 9/11.

Blumenthal called the death of bin Laden a turning point, but emphasized that the war on terror is not over.

“Striking down this enemy of democracy and freedom is an historic victory for our nation and marks a significant turning point in the war on terror," he said in a prepared statement. "Osama bin Laden orchestrated the killing of thousands of Americans including many from Connecticut and I hope his death provides their families and loved ones with some solace and closure.

"However, we must remain vigilant, vigorous and avoid complacency in the war against terror which continues since the enemies of democracy and freedom are greater than one individual. While we hope for peace, we must do everything possible to support the brave American military men and women whose relentless service and sacrifice helped win this victory.

"As they continue this fight across the globe, my heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the American warriors who have been lost or injured in the war on terror.”

For worldwide reaction click here.