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General Comments  |  Children's Issues

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September 11, 2007 Good morning, I use the word good because it is a correct salutation, because today is not a happy day. I live in Miami, FL but my family lived in New York for twenty nine years. On that fateful day, we were living our lives as usual. I was working and someone ran up to me saying a plane had hit the WTC. I never suspected the magnatude of what was happening, till I was told a second plane had hit. I ran to my youngest daughter's school, pulled her out, and went to my parents home. I sat there fixated on what I was watching on TV. I was also on the phone with my older sister. We had grown up in New York, married in New York, had children in New York. Though we lived in Miami, we were consumate New Yorkers. Our beloved home had been attacked and we were devasted. We wanted to help but we were so far away. So we decided to help in what ever way we could. My sister, Gema Lahesa, decided to donate blood at her church. So on Sept 23, 2001 she went to her church and donated the gift of life. But on the way home, she lost conciousness at the wheel of her car, hit a large palm tree, and was critically hurt. She was taken to a hospital, and though the doctors did everything they could, my sister passed away. No one could help her, eventhough she tried to help others. My parents were devasted. No parent should ever have to bury their child. Every Sept 11 is a day of tears and heart wrenching sorrow for us. My sister was a wonderful person. Dedicated to her family, extremely active in her church, and loved by numerous people. I wanted to share my sister's story with you. I wanted someone to know of her sacrifice for the city and people of New York. Every year my parents, who are octogenarians, have a mass for her on the 23rd of Sept, the day she died, but Sept 11 is just as painful. My niece, her daughter was a US Marine, and was discharged a few months prior to 9-11. She wanted to reenlist, but we begged her not to. But my 19 year old son, is now in the US Army and will be deployed at the end of this year. My youngest daughter was one of the hardest hit, as she adored her aunt Gema. Thank you for letting me tell you about her. Submitted by Lizette M.

July 31, 2007 [Regarding the Passage of the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Bill]: Bravo to all of you who persisted in this regard. Hope you have not run out of energy. Your hard work is greatly appreciated. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

September 15, 2006 I would like to pass on my thoughts and deepest sympathies to the families of those lost on September 11 2001. I was injured in the Kings Cross bombing in London last year, and while I have a very small understanding of the pain and sadness that terrorism causes, I cannot begin to imagine the sadness felt by families of anyone lost in such attacks. I would like to say that please remember that you have many friends in the UK -thinking about you and wishing you well - I am certainly one of them. -- General Public

September 15, 2006 September 11th is now just one of the tragic memories our generation has to live with. With this, I want to say sorry to all families who have lost someone very special in their lives. And to those who were suppose to be there on that awful day your angel is still with you. I still remember that day like it was yesterday. I was so terrified because all my family works in the buildings right next to the world trade center. You know just saying those words make me realize just how much you must apreciate everyone and everything in your life. These terrorists thought they'd break us down with that horrible act of unkindness and yet it just made everyone appreciate what they have in their lives. I'm not saying it should have happened but what i'm saying is that the memories of everyone there are still with us, and because of them it brought the U.S. back together. This is to the memories of all the people who passed away in this disaster. Keep the spirits up and God bless. -- Gina

September 11, 2006 As we reflect on the events of 5 years ago, I continue to have respect and grieve for those lost due to acts of terrorism. My thoughts and prayers are with you! -- Member

September 11, 2006 To the Tuesday, September 11, 2001 bereaved families: Your grief may ebb and flow. It has been said that each of us has this well deep inside of us that can be filled to the brim with grief. Every time we cry, we empty out some of the well. But the well fills again. The level of sorrow in your well may lessen as time passes, but it will never run dry. There will always be birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and those days when the well seems to fill to its brim again. Allow yourself time to remember and mourn. It is part of your healing. Grief is a continuing journey -- General Public

September 11, 2006 Today I read an article in the local paper here where your co-founder, Carie Lemack, was quoted. She expressed how she does not see the 9/11 events as being a form of entertainment. I so agree. I wanted to write and tell you that my heart is with all of you on this very sad day. I am a wife and mother and live in Calgary, Canada. I remember this day five years ago when my daughter came running into my bedroom and told me that a plane had hit the WTC. I went to the TV to see the burning image and not 10 seconds later did I see the second plane strike. And then that feeling of utter confusion, shock, and disbelief. My husband was in Cuba on business that day. I was talking to him and he said they were watching it on the TV, but the footage was not live. As I was speaking to him I witnessed the first tower collapse and I became hysterical as I told him. It was as if I felt the loss of all those people leave this earth at that very moment and it was so beyond my comprehension. I just could not understand, as if it could not possibly be real. As I turned on the TV last night, channel after channel was airing one or another show on 9/11. I still to this day get sick to my stomach when I see those images and all of the feelings of that day come back. I could not turn on any of it and I wondered if I was disrespecting all of those people who were taken that day, like as if I am ignoring their memory, denying this ever happened. But I just can't watch it. I can never feel what you have all been through, your loss, your pain. But, yes, we were all touched, affected that day. My husband travels alot in the Middle East, my children are gone to university, away from home. I worry about all the normal mom stuff that mom's are entitled to worry about. But you know, I think I worry more about them riding the subway or an airplane, because of the threat of terrorism, way more than I worry about the mom stuff. I guess it is because you can tell your kids to brush their teeth, look both ways, be careful, etc. but you have absolutely no control over this invisible factor and it is such a helpless feeling. I just wanted to let you know that there are some of us out here, maybe lots, who cannot watch this tragedy as entertainment. I can still vividly recall the faces in the street, their agony. But that, in no way compares to those who spent their final moments in fear, terror and helplessness. I always think of them first. -- General Public

September 11, 2006 May all who lost loved ones find peace and comfort knowing America still remembers. -- General Public

September 11, 2006 Hello, families – You have all been in my thoughts and prayers today – I am so sorry for your losses and the losses you represent – today I donated blood in honor of your loved ones – it was something small I could do – please hang in there!! -- General Public

September 7, 2006 I am a Police Inspector working in the area of Counter Terrorism at Gatwick International Airport England. I am making contact with you to let you know that you will all be very much in our thoughts over the coming days leading up to the anniversary of the attacks in the USA. I have many friends and contacts in enforcement agencies in the US and will be putting aside some quiet time on the 11th to think of all those persons affected. Best regards -- General Public

July 11, 2006 I'd like to offer my deepest condolences to those affected by blasts today in India, last Year in London, and on September 11th. These tragedies remind us that we must be ever vigilant in the fight against terrorism! -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 7, 2006 I just want to express my sympathy to London on the anniversary of their losses one year ago. As a mother who lost her son and only child on 9/ 11, I know how hard each day is,and my thoughts are with you. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

May 25, 2006 Hello to all. Just an FYI. I had just gone out to a movie tonight and had seen the coming attractions for WTC. My theatre had a posting at every entrance warning patrons of the preview. Had watched it and began to fill up on just the minute or so clip. Movie is going to be "gut-wrenching". The story has to be told, though I feel that it way too early for it-there may never be an "OK time" to see a movie dealing with the WTC, though I know that I'll be there with my FDNY cap. -- Family Member

May 10, 2006 I would just like to say that as a person who lost two loved ones on 9-11 at the WTC, I will not be viewing any movies made, tastefully done or not. I do not need to be reminded of the horrors of the day nor of the greif that I and thousands of others live with each day. I refuse to to give money to those looking to make a profit from our loss! -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

May 6, 2006 To each person who is still physically ill, and maybe even still in the hospital due to the attack: I think about you and I know others do, too, even if the media may act like everyone is back to normal. I pray for your healing. To everyone else, who is still feeling that fear, feeling the economic impact, the employment impact, and mostly, missing your friends and family, so many of us still think of you daily. We do not think in pity, but in hopes of your healing and in sympathy for this thing that no one asked for and no one could imagine. -- General Public

May 2, 2006 My husband and I saw the film UNITED 93 yesterday, and were glad that it was tastefully done. It showed the confusion of the day, as well as the heroics of the passengers: It was dramatic and graphic, yet you left the theater numb and with GREAT RESPECT for those aboard that flight! To those who lost loved ones that day I continue to grieve with you, and remain grateful to your loved ones for their sacrifice. -- FOS11 Member

May 2, 2006 I just wanted to say to everyone out there, I was there as rescue, I have felt so bad for so long that I couldn't do more for everyone. Please know that my deepest hurt goes out to you, I'm sorry it happened, and I still hurt with you to this day. I'm sure the feeling of loss will never go away, but maybe that's okay, because it shouldn't, by this I mean that I will never completely recover, and my suffering is so light by comparison to what you all have gone through. I guess what I'm trying to say is that though I've never met any of you, I feel very much a part of your family, and with open arms, and deepest of embraces, I cry with you still, and always will...I promise I will never let them go, and I promise to keep them, and you in my heart as long as I live. -- FOS11 Member

April 17, 2006 I have read about comments terrorist Zacarias Moussaoui has made, and know that this is difficult for those whose loved ones on that tragic day to hear such hateful remarks! As a concerned American citizen, I hope you feel that your loved ones will get justice whatever this judge decides to do. My thoughts and prayers are with you! -- FOS11 Member

April 1, 2006 I am just a person who lives in the Boston area. I just want to say that I have not forgotten you. I often say prayers and try to send hope and even joy to the families and especially the children who lost loved ones on September 11. It must be so much worse than losing someone in any other way because of the constant reminders about the date and the fact that everyone's lives changed that day. While those of us not personally affected were changed on that day, it is nothing compared to your loss, because your life changed in the same way ours did, plus you had to suffer a very personal tragedy. Even worse, your very personal tragedy continues almost daily in the public arena -- in politics, religion and on the news. If I could somehow give you true comfort in any way or take away the pain and sorrow for even just one minute, I would. I hope you are all okay. I will try to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers for the rest of my life as you live yours with this very personal, yet very public, tragedy. -- General Public

March 30, 2006 My husband and I just read an article about a 9 1 1 call made on September 11th, 2001. A man named Christopher Hanley apparently had told 9 11 dispatchers twice about being trapped 0n the 106th floor in one of the towers. Sadly this man who was simply told to ' Sit Tight' and 'Hold On', died that tragic day. This is an eerie remonder of what can happened, when preparations aren't made in the event of terrorist attacks. To The Hanleys and others who lost loved ones that day I am deeply sorry for what your families went through! -- FOS11 Member

March 16, 2006 As one of the K-9 handlers looking for survivors on Sept 12 and the remains after that date for 3 months, I am deeply saddened for the families and individuals that perished on that date. I do not go a day that I think of the faces, and the grief of those who suffered and died. I shall never forget . My heart goes out to all of the families who lost their loved ones. -- General Public

March 2, 2006 I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who still cares. I lost my brother that day he was in the first tower that was hit the plane hit his floor. I have been very depressed since that horrible day. I am so angry with people who tell me to get over it. WELL I can't get over it until it has happened to you maybe then you will understand. That is not the only thing it really and truly killed my mother she was never the same, which in turn killed me so to speak I lost my whole family literally I have no one left and it saddens me to know that people out there are saying to get over it!! Well I really hope nothing like this happens to anyone ever again, but if it does I will never ever say get over it because I know how you will feel.. Peace and Love to everyone that lost anyone that day. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

February 14, 2006 Every time I hear about more American lives taken in the middle east, my blood runs cold! If we can't stop terrorism on our own soil, how can we defeat it elsewhere? -- FOS11 Member

December 5, 2005 I awoke this morning early. Since 9/11 I have never been able to sleep well again. When I see the planes hit or the towers falling in some news special or photo spread, I cry fresh tears. Human beings are so precious. Life is so fragile. Here is a prayer for world and peace. -- General Public

November 9, 2005 I applaud tighter airline security measures since 9/11, however I recently read something that disturbed me. Scissors and knives are again being allowed aboard planes. This is something that makes me hesitant to fly again! -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

November 9, 2005 My husband and I both think that it's insane to allow knives and scissors aboard planes, especially since 9/11! My main fear is that this will increase the terrorism threat! Isn't here anything LEGALLY that can be done about this?! -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

October 27, 2005 My brother was killed in the London Bombings on 7/7. I wanted to thank you all for your kind thoughts which where posted on the bulletin board. Myself and my family where shocked and angered by the events of 9/11, never could you imagine such devastating actions by man. Now I sit here and I too have felt the pain and anger and utter devastation caused by terrorism. My love and thoughts to you all. -- General Public

October 7, 2005 I lost my mother on 9/11. The last 4 years have been so hard for me -- she was my best friend and now I feel like I'm alone in the world. Yes, I have family but it's not the same. I just had my sweet sixteen party -- it was good, but I wanted to lie down and cry all night because she wasn't there standing next to me. I hate it when people tell me that I have to get over it. It's so easy for them to say that because they didn't lose anyone that day. I miss you so much Mommy, I love you and I will never forget you ever. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

September 29, 2005 I just wanted to email you and say that I think it is really great that this organization exists. The pain of that day is still very real to those that watched it unfold. I can only imagine what it is like for the families. I just want you to know that all of you are still in my thoughts and prayers and I will never forget. My father was on his way to the Towers that day (he lived and worked in NYC at the time) and was unable to find his pass that day so he walked a block in the other direction to his other office. I didn't hear from him for almost six hours because the phones weren't working. My brother is in the USMC and was called to active duty that day. It was a very scary time for America. I am still sad and angry about what was done to these innocent people that were just trying to go to work that day. God bless them all. I hope that they will find some comfort. Please let these families know that they are in my heart. -- General Public

September 11, 2005 I just wanted to somehow let some of the families of 9/11 know that there are so many of us out here, even in the midst of current tragedy in my home state of Louisiana, that continue to remember and pray for your families all the time. Not just on the anniversary, but year long. Please know that though time has passed, I can promise you I will NEVER forget. Nor will I ever stop remembering, praying, and thinking of all of you. -- General Public

September 11, 2005 For those who lost family four years ago today, I'm grateful to your loved ones who paid THE ULTIMATE price for our freedom! I also agree with other posters on these message boards, that we can't let this day be forgotten! To coin a phrase "Those who don't learn from history, are doomed to repeat it." -- General Public

September 11, 2005 Four years did not soften the day one bit. It is four years but it feels like yesterday that Dennis was here! Thank you so very much for the time I had with you here on earth! I miss you and our family is incomplete without him. The Nutley Fire Dept has truly become a brotherhood I could count on. I guess you were right as you seemed to always be. Dennis I will always love and miss you until we meet again. You are a true Hero! -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

September 10, 2005 I will remember this day forever, it changed my life and it changed the world. I believe it should also be a day to reflect and remember those who were heroes and victims on this tragic day. As an educator, I promise to always teach my students about the events of this day because it is a day WE SHOULD NEVER FORGET. -- General Public

September 10, 2005 There is no doubt that 9/11 should be a National Day of Reflection. We need to constantly remind and reinforce what has happened to us, in hopes that it will never be repeated. As a direct survivor, and as someone who lost a wonderful friend, I am grateful for every day. -- FOS11 Member, Survivor

September 9, 2005 I completely agree it should be a national holiday. People haven't and will not forget in years to come. I have taken this day off from work for the past four years and plan on continuing to do so. -- General Public

August 29, 2005 I was in 7WTC that day and saw horrors I do not wish to repeat, in thoughts or in words. I sympathize with all families of survivors because my own family was very nervous for my well being that morning. I am blessed to be here. That being said, I am of the belief that 9/11 should be made into a national holiday. The impact that day has made to this country is indelible. We are changed forever and a holiday (holy day) to honor those lost, I believe, would be a serene way for the entire nation to pause and reflect. Thanks for reading. -- General Public

July 22, 2005 I am currently in the process of setting up support groups in London for those affected by the recent bombings, and would like to thank everyone for their messages of support. I fully intend to pass your messages on to the members of my groups as they form, and am sure that they will help tremendously. Thank you America! -- General Public

July 21, 2005 I was shocked and again saddened by today's events. My heart goes out to those affected by 9/11/01,7/7/05, and today! -- FOS11 Member

July 14, 2005 My heart has broken yet again, to learn that innocents have lost their lives because someone out there cannot fathom our freedom. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless you and keep you sane in the next few hours, days, years to come. Mother of a victim of the WTC attack. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 14, 2005 I feel such sadness that London has to endure such pain and loss that we know so well. My thoughts and prayers have been with you daily and I hope that just knowing that we are with you in spirit will help you get through this difficult time. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 11, 2005 My thoughts and prayers are with you in London. Please know we are here for you in NY and understand what you're going through. God bless each of you. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 9, 2005 To the families of those lost and injured in the London attacks: we send you our love and eternal support. May you find peace and strength to guide your path. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 9, 2005 I'm so terribly sorry for all the pain and suffering your loved ones went and are going through. Just know that the United States stands with you in solidarity. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 8, 2005 My heart goes out to the families of the London tragedy. We are sending our prayers across the pond to each of you. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 8, 2005 My daughter Amy was caught up in the terrorist strikes here in London yesterday. Thank God she emerged unhurt. During the time of waiting, I received a wealth of warm support and prayers from many of my American friends. Thank you also to all those on your site who offered support. -- General Public

July 8, 2005 I lost my father on 9/11 and send out my deepest condolences to all of England for the horrible act that occured in London. Your lives will never be the same but you be okay ... I promise, from experience. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 8, 2005 I awoke at 4:00 am on July 7, 2005. And though I have not slept through the night since I lost my brother on 9/11, I awoke with a horrible feeling, unable to return to sleep. Upon turning on CNN, I saw the London episode unraveling, and I knew immediately it has to be a terrorist attack. My mind immediately returned to that horrible September morning, and so many emotions returned. I woke my husband in tears, as my heart poured out to those individuals who were only maintaining their daily morning rituals, and the family members who sat and waited in fear, as I did 3 1/2 years ago. Today my heart is broken, and I send my sincere sympathy and condolences to those affected by such a meaningless attack on our secure societies. Please know that American citizens stand behind you and personally I am feeling your grief and despair. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 8, 2005 I am so sorry to hear of all the loss and suffering in London. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. People are thinking about you and wondering if you are OK and want to help. Let them and don't be afraid to ask. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 8, 2005 My prayers, condolences, and support are with the families who were affected by the horrible events in London on July 7. I know that at this time the shock, terror, and disbelief have probably not set in yet, but just know that I, who lost my husband on 9/11, and other families who have experienced the same type of tragedy are here in mind and spirit for you. I am truly sorry for your pain and loss. Please know that the people of United States will be here for you now and in the future. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 7, 2005 I am in Paris and just was in London yesterday. To hear the news of the bombings is so sad. It is another reason for continued prayer for peace and loving kindness and compassion worldwide. My mother was on American Flight 11. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

July 7, 2005 The tragic events of today in London are eerie reminders of what happened during the September 11th attacks. My heart goes out to those hurt and killed today, as well as those affected by 9/11. -- General Public

June 24, 2005 I, too, am outraged at the placement of the International Freedom Center at the site of the World Trade Center attacks. My brother and cousin were both murdered at that site. It is not a place for political discussions, cultural events, or a world history lesson. The IFC should be built someplace else, perhaps by the United Nations. There are almost 3,000 stories of bravery and heroism to tell about that day. Let us remember those who were murdered by building a center to honor their actions that day. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

June 23, 2005 The intention behind the Freedom Center may be good, but we all know how it will turn out. There is no room for politics and frankly anything else at the World Trade Center site but September 11; not slavery, not MLK, not the Holocaust but September 11. -- FOS11 Member

June 23, 2005 I am not opposed to the IFC or anything having to do with education, discussion or exchange of ideas on the site. I do not think this sullies the memory of our loved ones but contributes to the possibility of a better world (and no, I am NOT justifying terrorism and shouldn't even have to say that). I am, however, saddened that we are allowing our differences to morph into personal attacks on those with whom we disagree. Surely that dishonors the lost lives more than any building can. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

June 22, 2005 Actually, I disagree -- I do not think there is confusion. As I understand it there will be a memorial for the victims of 9/11, along with the IFC. I do believe that there is a great reason to have this IFC, but not on these hallowed grounds. My uncle died there and I want to go there to memorialize him and all the others who died that day. And only those people. When they built a memorial for the people who died in Oklahoma it was dedicated to JUST THOSE PEOPLE. I'm embarrassed that it is even being considered. Find a different site -- there is plenty of room for one. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

June 22, 2005 I am outraged at this IFC center and am appealing for FOS11 leadership to reconsider its position and join the family groups who are supporting the "Take back the Memorial" campaign. I further support starting the process anew with the current Trump proposal for a new plan for Ground Zero which would advocate adherence to NYC fire and safety codes, a proper burial, a beautiful above ground memorial with footprints intact, historical artifacts (such as the Sphere, Survivors Staircase & Cross), no random listing of names, a spiritual healing center, and many other important elements. The current design does not capture anything whatsoever which is remotely affiliated with the events of 9/11. It serves to bury the memories of our loved ones underground and wipe away any factual accuracy as to what the terrorists perpetrated on 9/11. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

June 21, 2005 There seems to be great confusion between the Memorial and the Memorial Complex, which is a shame. The overall complex SHOULD focus as a whole not only on victims and their families, but the rest of the world as well in order that September 11, 2001, and our loved ones not be forgotten. As for me, I'd simply like to see a 16 acres space approaching and through which families of victims of the attacks can pass in an undistracted, reflective mood to a place of solitude where their loved ones can be remembered with reverence. There should be a place where they (if they wish) and the rest of the world can go back in time to that awful day, which I understand the memorial center (underground) provides. If the transport from our daily lives and the lives of the rest of the world through the Memorial Complex accomplishes these goals, the job has been well done. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

June 21, 2005 My understanding is that there will be a memorial and a memorial center that are only about September 11 but that there will also be a "museum about freedom" on the site. I think it's this freedom center that has everyone so upset. I wouldn't care about this museum one way or the other if I knew for certain that the 9/11 memorial and the memorial center were the center of everything. How can we make certain that happens? -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

June 21, 2005 I lost two family members in New York on Sept. 11. I am positively devasted by the idea that the memorial being planned will have very little do with the events of that day. I suppose I should say instead that it sickens me. I have visited museums to learn about Native Americans or the Holocaust. I believe it is important to learn about the past so that we do not make those mistakes in the future. But this memorial should be about Sept. 11 only. I ask other members to post their thoughts as well. Other Sept. 11 organizations have joined together to take back the memorial so that our family members will get the proper attention that they deserve. Families of September 11 seems to have the opposite view. My uncle and cousin, and all of the other people who died that day, deserve so much more than that. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

November 3, 2004 I think of my brother every minute of every day especially when he called me that morning. I can't believe I was the first person he thought of and the last; his body will never be found but his soul lives inside me. People can feel sorry for you with all their heart, but those that didn't loose anyone that day honestly can't imagine the pain -- they can go on but the families who lost loved ones live day by day remembering every time they turn on the TV. It's a long battle that I haven't seen won yet. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

October 28, 2004 I recently read that the director of the movie Speed will be directing a made for TV drama on the events of 9/11. Is anyone else out there sickened by this? Kevin Reilly, an executive at NBC said that the mini-series would be a seminal event -- like "Roots" and "The Day After", a film about a nuclear attack on the US. Boycott these shameless exploiters of grief. -- FOS11 Member

October 21, 2004 I think that Families of September 11 ought to have a press conference to ask the administration to make the report by the Inspector General's office of the CIA public. The report was completed in June 2004, but it has not been made available to the congressional intelligence committees that mandated the study almost two years ago. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

September 27, 2004 There are no words that can express your grief, so there are none I can say other than I am so sorry for your tragic losses. Since 9/11 many questions go through my mind constantly. How safe are we from further terrorist attacks? I have always been told and I believe that safety is an illusion. No one can make us 100% safe. The determination of the terrorists is the greatest weapon we face. If this is true then how do we, individually, live in our "new" America with these very real threats to our safety and happiness? It seems we each must become more informed, involved and articulate. We can't live in fear or bury our heads to avoid dealing with this very real possibility. Thanks to all of you for moving outside your grief long enough to force the 9/11 Commission into existence. I cautiously read the Commission's report knowing full well that even though they were a bipartisan group, politics still is evident in their final report, but it's a beginning. -- General Public

September 7, 2004 In honor of all loved ones that you lost on 9/11/01, some of us in St. Louis have not forgotten. Two years ago, my father-in-law (a former Army Drill Sgt.) felt that he had to do something to remember those lost in the attacks on 9/11. So at 4:00 in the afternoon, he walked from his home in West St. Louis county to the Gateway Arch (21 miles). He was cheered and supported while he walked carrying his flag, and he cried. Last year, his family and friends vowed to not let him walk alone. We had close to 100 people by the time we reached the Arch. This year, we will do it again! You may check out our web site at www.marchtothearch.com -- General Public

September 5, 2004 Last night my husband, myself, and our young son watched a couple of programs about 9/11. Seven Days of Terror and Anatomy of September 11th showed the events and aftermath of the terrorist attacks, as seen through survivors and others who were there that tragic day. Again my heart goes out to those who mourn, as I grieve with them! -- General Public

August 20, 2004 As the third anniversary of 9/11 nears, I have a request. Let's pray for those who died on 9/11, regardless of your religion or connection to that day. My husband, son, and I will probably watch memorials then. I may write poetry and continue to read the 9/11 Commission Report. -- General Public

August 11, 2004 Let's have an organized national commemoration. Invite the public to stop everything (work, shopping, driving, etc.) -- not for 36 seconds, but for a DAY. Ask people to stop -- if only for a day -- stop behaving mindlessly and without consideration for others, in America and around the world. -- FOS11 Member

July 28, 2004 The re-privatization of the security screeners is a good thing. Remember none of the items that the hijackers used were prohibited; security screening was not the problem. If you read the 9/11 Commission Report you will find this fact to be true. Generally, private industry will do a better, more efficient job with this task. There are exceptions, but private industry will always trump government workers. I don’t understand why this is true, but believe me, after 30 years in the Federal system, I have found that outsourcing is a win-win for security and the taxpayers. -- General Public

July 23, 2004 The war on terrorism, as David Frum and Richard Perle noted in An End to Evil: How to Win the War on Terror, is a war of ideologies, which will probably never be won solely with military might or police actions. Unless we discredit terrorists and their fundamentalism, there will always be money and volunteers for terrorism. -- General Public

July 22, 2004 I would like all family, friends and loved ones who were victims of this horrible event to know that you are in my prayers. Even though I knew no one who was there on that tragic day, I feel pain. We are all brothers and sisters in this world. I cannot imagine the pain the families and friends are feeling but know that I send my love to you. Please let me know how I and the rest of the nation can help out. -- General Public

July 12, 2004 I share concern expressed with a previous posting regarding the 9-11 Commission report. In general I find it unsettling so little attention has been given to the excellent testimony of retired firefighter Dennis Smith. He has also written a good book on his part in the September 11 rescue (Rescue from Ground Zero). He repeated his comments on defective sprayed-on fireproofing many times. He should be listened to. -- General Public

July 9, 2004 Although almost three years have passed since that tragic day, everyone stands beside you in your pain and suffering. Your losses on September 11th are also ours. Someone once said that a person only really dies when you stop remembering him/her, and in this case that has not occurred, as we know your loved ones are with you in spirit and forever at your side. Time and courage, and a greeting to all of you. -- General Public, written in Spanish

June 28, 2004 Airline security remains vulnerable to the degree that it is not at the level it should be based upon the amount of money, personnel and resources thrown at the TSA. It will remain less than what it could be until accountability has been established. Without accountability, the culture of bureaucracy, which was simply transitioned to the new TSA after 9/11, will continue unabated. As long as that culture remains intact, aviation security will never rise to the level we deserve. -- General Public

June 28, 2004 One impact of 9/11 is more respect for the flag. I find myself pausing at the sight of an American flag. I give a heartfelt and patriotic salute to what's become a symbol of hope and peace. I may not have lost anyone that nightmarish day, but I mourn with those who did out of respect. -- General Public

June 24, 2004 I am concerned that the 9-11 Commission's report will not be all it can be, for three reasons: 1) In order to have a consensus, it appears that compromises are being made to avoid partisanship. 2) The government can't allow the Commission to reveal information which would assist the law firms representing the victims' families in their discovery efforts vis a vis suits against the airlines, port authorities and FAA/DOT. 3) The current administration will vet out anything which might not reflect well upon itself. Ergo, the best we can hope for is less than what we deserve. -- General Public

June 11, 2004 I miss my friend everyday; he was so athletic, funny, caring, and sweet. I'm gonna miss him so much. -- General Public

June 8, 2004 I have just read a very moving book called One Tuesday Morning -- it puts into words exactly how those firefighters felt as they went up those stairs, when the towers shook. I can only thank them for their unselfish acts in trying to help people they didn't even know and their poor families that have been left behind -- we think of you and your grief. Please all take care. They were extremely brave and compassionate. -- General Public

June 2, 2004 I miss my son everyday -- not a morning goes by that he is not my first thought and not an evening goes by where he is not my last thought. I have sent quite a few kids to college now with the funds I spend my time raising in his memory. If these boys grow to be half the man my son was, well then, it was all worth it and I will know now why this all came to be, for there will be many more young men like my son to keep his memory alive. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

May 31, 2004 On this Memorial Day I'd like to thank those who gave their lives on 9/11, and the brave military who serve us NOW! -- General Public

May 19, 2004 When we first dedicated the site for the Idaho Memorial, on September 11, 2002, there were about 1,000 people in attendance. To accommodate those numbers I worked to get the highway closed down for about three hours and arranged for bus transport to and from the site to the local fair grounds. Idaho's Governor was our keynote speaker as well as several other state and local dignitaries. I was even able to arrange a military flyby of 4 A-10 aircraft. At the time we had just the 60-foot flagpole with the 10X15 foot flag and the engraved monument in place. By September 11, 2003, we had the beautiful stone wall installed as well as the brick walkway. Although the ceremony was scaled down, it too was very touching, and I intend to have another one installed this fall. -- FOS11 Member, Relative of Victim

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