Homeland Insecurity
Regarding "Accepting the 'New Normal'" [September 11] and the reasoning of this administration's attacking Iraq: Things have to make sense to me. None of the stated reasons for attacking Iraq fills this requirement. What does make perfect sense is that George Bush wanted to be remembered as a great president, and that great presidents have been wartime presidents. This is one reason I have to laugh when this administration claims the moral high ground. For the first time, as an American, I am afraid to expand on the above statement. I leave that to the reader.
RICHARD E. MULLANEY
East Wakefield, N.H.
I am incensed that "Accepting the 'New Normal'" provided little on the tragedy of 9/11 and more on attacking the Bush administration, Israel, and conservatives. The story could have discussed how New Yorkers have moved on, or how Americans in general are handling this tragedy.
JAKOB K. HAMM
New Salem, Mass.
After 9/11, we allowed Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, and their band of neocons to hijack America. We were too easily led into a military misadventure that has killed thousands of innocent Iraqi people and many brave young American soldiers. After five years we are recovering from our collective 9/11 post-traumatic stress syndrome, regaining our rationality, and are less easily led astray.
TOM COLLINGS
Bellmore, N.Y.
In the last five years I have learned that radical Islamists will stop at nothing in their quest to convert, conquer, or kill those who stand in their way. I learned that American and allied troops battle overseas because the alternative is too sorrowful to comprehend. I learned sadly that freedom is not without cost, and I thank God for the men and women who defend the flags of free nations around the globe. I learned that this war cannot be won by launching cruise missiles from great distances. It is a war that will take decades, if it is ever really over.
KENNETH W. KELLER
Valencia, Calif.
"What Have We Learned" since 9/11? The answer: not enough. The president is not providing localities like New York City with adequate security funds. Nuclear power plants like Indian Point (near New York City) are still operating near populated areas and could be prime terrorist targets. Planes are allowed to fly over these plants since the no-fly zones have been discontinued. Reservoirs, train stations, and bus terminals are not adequately protected, nor is our food supply. In the meantime our nation spends billions on a war that makes no sense. The funds would be better used to protect the American people here at home.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh, N.Y.
Trivial Pursuits
"Viewing 9/11 From a Grassy Knoll" [September 11] concerning 9/11 conspiracy theories was a slap in the face to all victims and their families. To print such drivel is to give credence to the group, 9/11 Truth. To go to the twin tower site and confront those who might be mourning is unfathomable. The valuable space in your magazine would be better used in a discussion about how individuals who suffered a loss on that terrible day have kept their lives going.
DAVE GRAVES
Indianapolis
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