One week after Joplin, Missouri was leveled by the deadliest tornado to strike the U.S in decades, President Barack Obama visited the ravished city to offer hope and promises of help to survivors.
STORY: Death And Destruction: 117 Dead As Missouri Recovers
Obama came face to face Sunday with the legions of homeless, consoling the community as it remembered the more than 130 people killed in the storm. The memorial service erupted in cheers when Obama said, “I promise you your country will be there with you every single step of the way,” a pledge he extended to all parts of the nation raked by violent storms this season.
Obama made the same vow hours earlier during the service, telling locals: “We’re not going to stop `til Joplin’s back on its feet.”
The Joplin tornado was the worst to hit the United States in decades. Hundreds were injured and 39 people remained unaccounted for as of late Sunday. There are four more people whom family members have reported as deceased, but those deaths haven’t been officially confirmed.
STORY: Joplin, Missouri Gets Rocked By Massive Tornado
“Sorry for your loss,” Obama told an anguished woman, hugging her twice as they talked. Another woman told him that her uncle lives up the road – he survived but his house did not. “Tell your uncle we’re praying for him,” the President said.
“This is not just your tragedy,” Obama said. “This is a national tragedy, and that means there will be a national response.” He said: “We are going to be here long after the cameras leave.”
(source)
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President Obama Visits Joplin, Missouri In Aftermath Of Devastating Tornado
President Obama Visits Joplin, Missouri In Aftermath Of Devastating Tornado
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President Obama Visits Joplin, Missouri In Aftermath Of Devastating Tornado
President Obama Visits Joplin, Missouri In Aftermath Of Devastating Tornado
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President Obama Visits Joplin, Missouri In Aftermath Of Devastating Tornado
President Obama Visits Joplin, Missouri In Aftermath Of Devastating Tornado
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