Community Corner

Nearly a Decade After 9/11, bin Laden Is Dead: What's Your Reaction?

Symbolically and psychologically, this is a huge victory; but will it have any effect on terrorists who still see America as the enemy?

"Justice has been done."

Indeed. Osama bin Laden is dead. And President Barack Obama's words are the ones we'll remember from the historic night of May 1, 2011, when we learned that almost 10 years after he orchestrated the devastating 9/11 terrorist attacks that left more than 3,000 dead, the al-Qaida leader himself had been killed.

Outside the White House, crowds gathered to cheer, chant "USA" and sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye." Jubilant Americans all over the country celebrated the news.

Find out what's happening in Plainfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

But as the details start to sink in, the questions begin to arise:

How much of a blow will this be to al-Qaida? Does this signal the beginning of the end to the wars we've launched in Iraq and Afghanistan? Is it a hollow victory given the number splinter terrorist groups that have developed in the last decade?

Find out what's happening in Plainfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

What was your reaction to the news? What do you think will happen next?

Fill in the comment box below and tell us what you're thinking.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here