Thoughts, Prayers on Solemn Anniversary

New Hampshire elected leaders, dignitaries, candidates and members of public safety teams reflected on the Boston Marathon bombings a year ago on April 15. 

The following are some of their statements on the anniversary of the attacks April 15, 2013:

Gov. Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter):

"The horrific bombings at last year’s Boston Marathon and the aftermath deeply affected all of us in New England. One year later, we remember those who lost their lives and send our thoughts and prayers to their families and loved ones. We are also inspired by the courage of those who were injured, as well as their determination to keep their lives moving forward.

I encourage all Granite Staters to join the people of the City of Boston, those across the country, and me in a Moment of Silence this afternoon at 2:49 p.m. to honor those who died, the hundreds who were injured, and all of the first responders, doctors, and nurses who came to their aid.

In the face of this senseless act of terror and cowardice, the people of New England demonstrated our collective resilience, standing together to overcome this tragedy. We remain united in our support for the victims and in our gratitude for, and pride in, the professionalism, skill, and dedication of the law enforcement community. Their work to protect the people of our region and bring the perpetrators to justice was outstanding.

"Next week, thousands of runners and spectators will gather, as they have for over a hundred years, to run a race that epitomizes the endurance and resiliency of our country, our region, and our people. And we will continue to heal and get stronger."

U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH):

"I'll never forget the shocking violence that struck Boston a year ago, but I'll also never forget what we saw in the aftermath - the courage of our first responders and the resiliency of a city struck by tragedy. We can never thank enough all those who helped Boston recover from the horrors of that day – the first responders, both law enforcement and medical, and the countless number of volunteers who banded together to help a community during one of its most vulnerable times. All of these men and women, along with the victims, their families, and their loved ones, are in my thoughts today."

Jim Rubens, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate:

"The resilience of the families and victims of the Boston Marathon bomber in the face of pure evil embodies what makes Boston and America strong."

Scott Brown, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate:

"Today we stand together to mark the one-year anniversary of the unspeakable tragedy that shocked our communities and stunned our nation. Gail and I send our thoughts and prayers to the victims and families, and extend our deepest appreciation to the first responders and heroic citizens who acted with courage and bravery in treating the wounded. What happened at the Boston Marathon a year ago reminds us that we must remain vigilant against radical terrorists who want to wage war against America. The reason we remember is because we are determined never to forget the loved ones lost, as well as the threat posed by our enemies."