President Obama addressed the victims of the Oklahoma tornadoes Tuesday, insisting that fellow citizens would stand with the affected and that they would receive all necessary aid.
"As a nation, our full focus right now is on the urgent work of rescue, and the hard work of recovery and rebuilding that lies ahead," he said, in a live broadcast from the White House. "We're a nation who stands with our fellow citizens."
The president spoke after receiving a briefing on the current state of the tornadoes that stormed through the plains states on Monday. As many as 28 twisters ripped Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa and Illinois. Over 20 people were injured and two were killed. About three dozen homes were decimated. High winds uprooted trees, flying rocks and debris hit homes and automobiles, even breaking through double-paned windows.
"In an instant, neighborhoods were destroyed," the President said, "and among the victims were young children trying to take shelter in the safest place they knew, their school."
Mr. Obama stressed the point that he would ensure Oklahoma and the four other affected states would get help as quickly as possible, as he issued a disaster declaration the night before to expedite federal aid.
"Oklahoma needs to get everything it needs right away," he said firmly.
Amidst urgent words that he delivered in a deadpan, monotone manner, President also offered stories of relief, saying that FEMA staff was deployed on Sunday, when the tornadoes struck the hardest. Assistance from Texas, Nebraska and Tennessee also arrived in the midst of the disaster.
The University of Oklahoma has offered shelter to the victims, the President said, and multiple churches and businesses have "opened their doors-and their wallets." Mr. Obama also urged others to join the American Red Cross-that has sent rescue teams to the Midwest- to help out for the cause.
"What [Oklahoma] can be certain of, is that Americans from every corner of this country will be right there with them," Mr. Obama said. "We recognize that you face a long road ahead. In some cases there will be enormous grief that has to be absorbed, but you will not travel that path alone."
