Newtown Shooting Tragedy: Michelle Obama Writes Open Letter Mourning Sandy Hook Victims

First lady pens moving tribute remembering the 26 victims of the senseless horror

Michelle Obama is paying tribute to a grieving community in the depths of a senseless tragedy.

The first lady has penned an open letter remembering the victims of the horrific shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., as she shares her anguish over the unspeakable loss while honoring the strength of their families and loved ones.

"I know that I cannot begin to imagine the depths of your grief," she writes in the Hartford Courant.

"As a mother of two young daughters, my heart aches for you and your families. Like so many Americans, I wish there were something—anything—I could do or say to ease your anguish."

She also wonders, "How can we go on—as families and as a community?"

Obama, however, puts her deep faith in the resilience of a united community, and in a nation filled with resolve.

"I also know that we have already begun to see the answer to that question in the countless acts of courage, kindness and love here in Newtown and across America," she adds.

"In the months and years ahead, may the memories of those beautiful children and those heroic adults be a blessing for their families, for your community and for our country, and may God bless you all."

The first lady's words come on the heels of a string of moving memorials across the nation and throughout Hollywood, including tributes from Ellen DeGeneres and The Voice.