Al-Qaida is weaker and the United States has become stronger and safer since 9/11, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said in a speech he made after touring the National September 11 Memorial and Museum.

Panetta said the attacks a decade ago have in some ways strengthened the U.S. at home and abroad. He credits cooperation among intelligence organizations, the Homeland Security Department and other agencies with that improvement.

Panetta said al-Qaida has taken serious hits to its ability to operate, but that the terrorist organization still poses a threat — especially in nations such as Yemen and Somalia.

He said the U.S. military must stay vigilant.

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