Hayden calls for continued dedication

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11 (UPI) -- The head of the Central Intelligence Agency promised Wednesday before the Sept. 11 anniversary that the agency is dedicated to protecting the United States.

CIA Director Michael Hayden said in a message sent to CIA employees that the best way to honor the lives lost during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States is to remain dedicated to fighting terrorism and protecting the country from another attack, the CIA reported.

"We mark the seventh anniversary of one of our nation's most difficult days," Hayden said in a statement.

"To see America under attack, as it was then, is something none of us can ever forget."

In the message Hayden referred to a sign posted on the wall of the agency's counter-terrorism unit at CIA Headquarters that says "Today's date is September 12th, 2001." Hayden called the sign a constant reminder to remain dedicated.