On Monday, political leaders from across Virginia reflected on what Osama bin Laden's death means for citizens of the commonwealth.
Governor McDonnell said bin Laden's death marks an historic moment for Virginia in particular. The governor stated that bin Laden had a major impact on Virginia and says it's remarkable that the commonwealth played such an important role in killing the terrorist leader.
Regarding the military operation, which infiltrated a compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, McDonnell stated, "It was accomplished with a seal team from Virginia Beach, Virginia. You know, we're so proud to be home to the United States Military."
The Virginia State Police urged people to be vigilant for attacks in retaliation in response to bin Laden's death. McDonnell says there is no immediate threat to Virginia, but it's important to be aware.
United States Senate hopeful George Allen calls the death of Osama bin Laden a big victory in what promises to remain a tough war on terrorism. Allen talked to supporters at a town hall luncheon in Staunton. The Republican called Monday a day of "justice and freedom."
Allen was serving in the Senate in 2001 and said the national unity shown Monday is similar to what the American people shared right after 9/11.
"We need to keep that unity of purpose in fighting these evil, maniacal terrorists, who even now are undoubtedly plotting some way to disrupt and harm Americans or our allies. So when we're in the midst of war there should not be any partisan politics. We're all Americans."
Allen is vying for the Republican nomination for US Senate. His campaign stops included a tour of small businesses in downtown Staunton.
Congressman Robert Hurt said on Monday, "The death of Osama bin Laden marks a great victory in the war on terror and is welcome news for all of us."
Virginia US Senator Mark Warner, who sits on the Intelligence Committee stated, "His death provides a sense of justice, and hopefully a measure of comfort, for those who have given so much in America's fight against international terrorism."
Reported by NBC29 HD News
McDonnell was scheduled to honor Virginia first responders today, an event he says took on a whole new significance after Sunday night.
