We can all be inspired in these difficult days by the example set by the strength and professionalism of those who provided assistance to others yesterday.  Amid chaos, pain and destruction, police, fire, EMS and medical professionals, volunteers, race officials, and spectators all responded to the needs of others, and brought light where evil had caused darkness.

The marathon itself has traditionally served to remind us all of the greatness of a nation founded upon freedom, liberty and justice for all.  We must all work to ensure that that purpose continues, and that even as one or more perpetrators have caused tragic loss of life, incalculable suffering and an attempt to tear apart the fabric of our society we will unify and support those who are suffering bring those who caused that suffering to a just punishment.  The marathon stood for freedom when it started and must stand for freedom now.

Now is the time to draw on our collective strength as a nation, a state, and a community, and to speak with a single voice, a message of compassion for victims and intolerance for the one or more cowards who are responsible for their suffering.

While we feel emotions of sadness, frustration and anger, our American spirit must remain strong and uncompromised.

The evil committed yesterday has caused a tremendous amount of pain and destruction in the lives of innocent men, women, and children, and it’s difficult to fully grasp the thoughts and feelings of those who were either harmed or have lost loved ones.  My thoughts and prayers are with them.

It is important that whoever needs assistance in coping with yesterday’s horrific events seeks help.  One such resource is the Federal Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, which provides a free counseling service to anyone affected by this tragedy.  If you have yet to be able to reach a loved one please contact either Mayor Menino’s hotline at 617-635-4500, or call the Red Cross’s Safe and Well hotline at 1-800-REDCROSS.

At this point in the investigation, public safety agencies and personnel are asking anyone who has any photos or specific knowledge that may be of assistance to please call the Boston Crime Tips Hotline at 1-800-494-TIPS or the FBI Tip Line at 1-800-Call-FBI.  The investigation will be extensive, and any help that the general public can provide will be tremendous.

If you need further information, have questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate in contacting my office at 617-722-1600.