N002109
Sunday, January 20, 2002 2:11 AM
Sept. 11 Victim Compensation
I have deep and sincere sympathy for all those who lost loved ones in the attacks of Sept. 11 and understand the government's need to prevent lawsuits from bankrupting our transportation system. I am not sure I totally understand though the rational being employed by these grief stricken families in regards to seeking compensation in excess of what is being offered. First, there have been many nonprofit agencies who have collected private donations to help families. Make them hand over this money to the families. Additionally, a current letter being circulated complained that the amount of compensation being offered was the same "as a member of the Armed Forces", and that by virtue of their public service that it was adequate for them but not those who had previously enjoyed the very freedom these patriots afforded them. I find this highly offensive. My spouse serves proudly in the military and I don't think that his life is any less important or precious than those lost. He has served in spite of low pay and long hours. If he were to die tomorrow while serving this country, I and my children would receive no special treatment. What the government should do is distribute some of the seized Al-Qaeda assets to the families.
I do hope the families involved with the Sept. 11 attacks are treated with fairness and sensitivity. I pray for them daily to find peace and comfort.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment