President Obama was windy and mawkish when he announced that Osama bin Laden was dead. Here are the remarks he should have delivered:
Good evening. Tonight, I can report to the American people and to the world that last night American forces killed the terrorist Osama bin Laden, leader of al Qaeda, and mastermind of the 9/11 attacks, in his hideout in Abbottabad, Pakistan, a small city north of Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad.
Our forces took custody of his body. DNA analysis, eyewitness identification, and corroborating evidence established his identify beyond any doubt. His remains were treated respectfully in accordance with Islamic custom, and then, in accordance with American custom, committed to the deep of the Arabian Sea.
Over the coming days and weeks, we will provide the details of this American only operation.
Osama bin Laden is finished, but Al Qaeda is not, and therefore neither is our task. Tonight, I remind all peoples and nations that the United State of America stands by its friends — and that no matter how long it takes, either brings its enemies to justice, or justice to its enemies.
Thank you and good night.