A000273
November 21, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
Five thousand people were murdered on September 11, 2001 They left that morning to work at the
World Trade Centers and the Pentagon and were at their desks by 8:30 AM. Some said "I love you" as they
left, sone said "see you later:, and some said "don't forget to put air in your tires." None came home that
night. None will came home anymore for the rest of forever.
In response to the Justice Department's request for public comment on the "September 11 Victim
Compensation Fund' established by the Air Transporation Safety and System Stablization Act, we
respectfully submit the following. However, before we begin our substantive comments, please allow us to
make you aware of one fact. Be very clear in knowing that there is nothing you could possibly do on this
earth that could compensate us for the loss of loved ones. You could offer us one billion dollars each lump
sum, and we would trade it along with all our worldly possessions to have them back, to have them home. The
Victim Compensation Fund is purported to be an attempt to "make whole" the families of the victims lost in
the attacks. Unless you have supreme power which will result in the return of our loved ones, "making
whole" is impossible. Alternatively, we are hoping this legislation results in a fund which truly is an incentive
for families not to pursue litigation. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to comment.
RIGHT TO A HEARING
The legislation as written does not make clear whether or not we will have right to be heard before a
hearing officer or Special Master. Only we can present the specifics of our personal situation and loss and
therefore rightfully deserve the opportunity to do so. This would include the right to be represented by
counsel, to present evidence, to offer personal and expert testimony, and to present our expectations of relief.
This would require each case to be heard and considered individually. While this may be time consuming, it is
the only way to insure that each family suffering this loss is fairly represented and thus fairly compensated.
ECONOMIC LOSSES
We strongly oppose any cap to the amount recoverable through the Fund for economic losses suffered as
a result of the death of our loved ones. Husbands and fathers worked long hours, sacrificing the precious
time they had left with their families and children, to earn the salaries and bonuses accrued every year. This
income is forever gone; to reduce it in any manner is contary to the statutory attempts to "make whole" the
family suffering as a result of this disaster.
The computation of the amount of lost wages should be similar to that used in personal injury actions.
Retirement age should be set at 68 and the decedent age subtracted from there. Gross income should be
averaged over the past three years. The resulting income and years in retirement should be multiplied
together for a starting point for computation. Factors such as inflation, wage increases, merit advancements
and any other benefits that would have earned had the victim's lived should be considered and added to the
base amount.
NON-ECONOMIC LOSSES
We, again, strongly oppose any cap to the amount recoverable through the fund for non-economic losses
suffered as a result of the most public, painful and horrific deaths of our loved ones. Each case must be
evaluated individually and must take into account specifics such as the number of the decedent's children and
their age, the severity of the pain and suffering of both the victim and his family members, and the severity
of the loss and the pain to be suffered as a result of reliving this tragedy as a moment in history for the rest
of our lives, for the rest of their children's lives.
It is worthwhile to note that families with substantial pensions, with a lost spouse nearing retirement age,
or with income received as a result of the death of the victim would be unable to benefit from this Fund
unless the recovery under this section is substantial. There would be no incentive to pursue a claim offset to
pecuniary loss or minimal benefit. Litigation in this instance would be obviously pursued.
COLLATERAL INCOME
We strongly oppose and are greatly disturbed by the clause in the statute which requires any distribution
under the fund to be offset by "the amount of collateral source compensation the claimant has received or is
entitled to receive...[including] life insurance, pension funds, death benefit programs..." Since this is a
governmentally sponsored fund, we find it understandable and acceptable to reduce the amount recovered
under such by the monies received throught other government programs. However, reducing the amount
distributed by proceeds of life insurance policies of the decedents is unreasonable and contrary to public
policy. It establishes a system of disparate treatment among the victims in that it penalizes some for
investments made through personal purchases, while excluding others. For example, victims who increased
their families assets through personal purchases of stocks or related investments to a level where life insurance
was not necessary would be able to collect from the fund as written with minimal offset. However, those
who planned to increase family assets through life insurance would have the same distribution substantially
reduced by the amount of the life insurance proceeds. If an individual purchased a rare painting, for his estate
planning, sold after his demise at a substantial financial gain for his heirs, his families distribution under the
fund would not be reduced. Yet distribution to the family who purchased life insurance instead, if regulated
as planned, would be offset by the proceeds. It is quite simply an unequal and unfair provision.
The government may not investigate and penalize against the personal purchase of individuals. We do
enjoy the right of the protection of liberty in the country, we have the right to earn a living and spend our
after tax dollars as we see fit. All life insurance proceeds should not be considered as collateral income under
the Fund. Most specifically, supplemental life insurance, obtained with personal funds, must be absolutely
exempted from the provisions which regulate distribution reductions under the Fund. If revising the
language of the statute is not an option of this Committee at this juncture, or not an option until properly
challenged, we submit that reductions of the distribution under the Fund be a percent of the proceeds of
employer sponsored or funded life insurance by the amount of employer contribution would be an acceptable
compromise. No reduction of supplemental life insurance should be considered.
COLLATERAL INCOME/IRA'S; CHARITABLE DONATION
Pension funds, IRAs and 401K plans are essentially savings accounts of another name funded with the
personally earned money of the decedent. The choice of one's particular occupation or allocation of his
income gave rise to the monies availabe at retirement or death in these accounts. Again the issue of disparate
treatment arises. Individuals who saved in the standard bank sponsored savings account suffer no reduction
from distribution under the Fund. Individuals who allocated their savings of personally earned income to
retirement accounts suffer reduction of the total amount in savings in that which would be distributed under
the Fund. In deference to the governmental involvement in IRA's et al, money owed due to preferential tax
treatment of savings in retirement accounts could be reduced from Fund allocations, but principal
determined to be from personal savings must not.
In the end, we lost our loved ones because they worked in a national landmark. The terrorist chose
those buildings, the World Trade Centers, because they symbolized the American economy, the freedom of
capitalism. It was an act of war on America and the American people recognized this. As a result, in an
effort to support our country and to unite with those of us who suffered the grievous loss in this tragedy, the
American people donated hard earned money to ease the burden of those of us left to suffer this loss for a
lifetime. Donations were generously given as a form of healing for both donor and service. It is
reprehensible that the very charities trusted with the responsiblity to honor the wishes of the American
people see fit to withhold the donations for personal objectives, yet to have the government attempt to belittle
the gesture of its own people even further is as horrific as the tragedy itself. The money donated is noted as
"gift from the American people." Since when does our government have the right to investigate our
personal gifts and require the recipients to "pay them back"? Charitable donations must not be considered a
source of collateral income to reduce the amounts distributed under the Fund. That is not the spirit of
which the donations were given. Restitution of the amounts by a reduction in Fund allocation would serve
only to financially benefit the government. If that is what the people of this country had intended, they
would have sent their checks to the government first hand.
RIGHT TO APPEAL
One of the liberties we enjoy in America is the right to an appeal. In cases heard before a judge in trial
and in most heard before a hearing officer in an administrative agency, respondents enjoy the right to appeal
the decision. Plaintiffs would have the right to appeal a decision on varying levels if litigation were pursued
in response to the events of September 11. Denying one the right to appeal the decision of the Special
Master is not an incentive to consider merits of the Victim's Compensation Fund. And it is economy as well
to the standard practices of adjudication of this country.
Finally, we would respectfully request that payment under the fund be paid in one lump sum and as
directed by the claimants. For example, sums paid to a victim's minor children should be permitted to be
made in trust with vesting as determined by the child's guardian.
CONCLUSION
Thank you again for this opportunity to comment on regulations which will have great effect on our lives
and the lives of the children of the victims. We have suffered the greatest of losses because we live in
America and because our loved ones worked in the symbol of American capitalism. We are changed forever;
we bear the burden of other's hatred of our country's ideals more than anyone at this moment in time. Think
of the children as you write and finalize the regulations associated with the Victim's Compensation Fund.
Think of the children, not partisan loyalties. Think of the children, because if you do not now, you will have
lost the opportunity to support your fallen families forever.
Sincerely yours,
Comments by:
September 11 Victim's Families
Attachment 1:
November 20th, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
I am a fourteen-year-old boy by the name of . My father was
, a kind man and a wonderful dad. We did everything together,
from going to various sporting events to playing golf. On the morning of September 11th,
in an instant of fire and smoke, my father would never again be able to hold me in his
arms. He worked in the 104th floor of World Trade Center 1 for the offices of and was there, as usual, September 11th. In the northwest corner he remained
trapped by the unrelenting smoke and fire with about fifty other employees. It
was then that he realized that this could be the last of his moments alive. He was the only
one there with a cell phone, so most of the time he allowed other people to call their
loved ones. He was on the phone with my mother at the very end, until we lost
connection about ten minutes before his building collapsed. I was in school, oblivious to
what was happening, expecting to go home and hear that my father was fine. That was
not the case, however, I would never hear his voice or feel his loving touch again.
Not only was I directly affected, but also my mother, of course, and my 11-year-
old brother, . Never again will we be the same, for we are forever without our
father's tender love and caring advice.
I may not be an adult, but I fully grasp the gravity of what is occurring both in our
government and elsewhere. The comments and opinions attached to my letter represent
not only my beliefs, but I'm sure that of everybody else who is in my situation. Please
accept our pleas and suggestions, and thank you for a chance to respond on the
September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.
Sincerely yours,
Individual Comment
Rockville Center, N.Y.
Attachment 2:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
930 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My name is . My husband is . worked for on the 10th floor of the World Trade Center and was murdered on September
11th. I was four months pregnant on that Tuesday. I had kept him up on Monday night
because I was not feeling well. He was so concerned and helpful, as always. This baby is our
first. We have been married over five years and together for about 15 years. He had just
turned 31 on September 6th and could not have been more excited about finally becoming a
daddy.
He called me and left a message at about 8:30 that Tuesday morning. He wanted to make
sure that I was feeling better. He also said that he wanted me to look at an interesting article
on the Internet. He never actually said what it was in reference to. His last words on the
answering machine were "call me later".
I cannot stop thinking of this. The fact that he thought that there was going to be a later
for him. After all, he was just at work and there is no danger in that. I never heard from him
again. All I can think of is how scared I was for him that day and everyday since then. The
thought of him being in pain or being scared and knowing at one point that he was going to
die haunts me. I can only imagine that he was thinking, God, please watch over my baby and
my family.
I cannot accept that will never get to see his child. He will never hold his baby close
to him and sing to him as he often would do to my belly after we found out that we were
pregant. He worked very had to insure that we would have everything that we needed and
then some. I admire and respect him for that. I love him for the incredible partner that he
was. He was always helpful to all people, always wearing a smile, always so real and genuinely
human. People were drawn to him.
and I lived overseas for about 5 years. We were in London first and then in Tokyo.
sent him overseas in 1995. We came back from Tokyo just before January of
2000. I will never forget so many people being so happy and telling us the same thing - "we
are so happy that you are both coming home, back to your country where you will be safe,
finally."
I am so sick over the thought that such a thing could happen. I am so sick of hearing
that we will not allow terrorists to win by backing down and not going on with our lives. The
reality is that they did win. They took the one most important part of my life away. They
took my husbands life and turned it into a tragedy, a horrific disgusting tragedy.
In the midst of this tragedy, I thank God everyday for the blessing of a child. After I
thank him I ask him why this happened? I ask him, how will I explain to our little boy who
his daddy is why he is just a photograph? I ask , if he is looking down on me, to
give me the strength to do the right thing to ensure that our child has a brighter and more
secure future. And finally, I pray to God about a million times a day that , and all of the
wonderful people that were killed that day, did not suffer and that they died fast, with no
pain.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own.
Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the September 11 Victim Compensation
Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Attachment 3:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
Department of Justice
950 Pennsylanvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
I am writing on behalf of my daughter, and my three grandchildren.
, and .
's husband and the father of my grandchildren was who worked for
on the 104th Floor of One World Trade Center. left for work the morning
of September 11th and we have not heard from him again and his body has not been recovered.
I am writing to express my concerns over the proposed legislation and regulation relating
to compensation to victims' families. The legislation and regulation as initially proposed is unfair
and inequitable to familes who have suffered this tragic loss. Annexed hereto is a letter. Please
accept the contents and opinions of this attachment as those of my own and those of my daughter.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the September 11th Victim Compensation
Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Attachment 4:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My name is . My husband, , worked for
on the 104th floor. I was on the telephone with on the morning
of September 11th . He was trapped in the northwest corner office with about fifty other
employees and was unable to escape due to fire and smoke on this floor.
spent most of the time relaying phone numbers to me of loved ones of those co-workers
he was trapped with and we finally lost our phone connection about ten minutes before
his building collapsed. I did not get to say "I love you." I did not get to say "goodbye."
His body has not been recovered. He was 45 years old and we would have celebrated our
21st wedding anniversary on the 29th of this month.
We have two children. is 14 and is 11. They also did not get to say
goodbye to their father and best friend. Their lives will be forever altered by the tragic
events of that fateful day and we will hold together and share in the joy of 's life
always.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own.
Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the September 11th Victim Compensation
Fund.
Sincerely yours,
Individual Comment
Attachment 5:
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Deptartment of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Ave
Washington, D.C. 20530
November 20, 2001
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My name is . My son-in-law, . worked on
the 104th floor of 1 WTC for and was at work on September 11th when
the plane hit his building. Unable to escape and trapped in a glass enclosed office on that
floor I can only imagine his terror in the last moments of his life. His body has not been
recovered and my daughter and her two boys, ages 14 and 11, have been trying to cope
with the effects of this tragedy. His death will alter their lives forever. was a
loving, wonderful son with a keen intellect and an engaging sense of humor. He was 45
years old and he and my daughter, , would have celebrated their 21st wedding
anniversary in a few days. My husband and I have known for more than 25
years and truly feel as though we lost our son to the horrific events of Sept. 11th.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own.
Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the September 11th Victim Compensation
Fund.
Very truly yours,
Individual Comment
Attachment 6:
November 23, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My name is . My husband, , worked as a self-
employed consultant for on the 101st flor of the north tower. The last
time I saw him and spoke to him was on the morning og September 11th as he left for
work at about 6:40 a.m.
We have two children. is 23 and is 20. They are lovely, bright and caring
children. These qualities came from their Dad.
All three of us miss him very much. Please accept the comments and opinions of the
attached letter as that of my own.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and my comments on the September 11th
Victim Compensation Board.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Attachment 7:
November 23, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
On September 11, 2001, our son-in-law, , was killed in the attack on
the World Trade Center. The sorrow for all family members is
immeasurable.., especially for our daughter, and our three
grandchildren, (age 6), (age 4), and (age 3). For the rest of their
lives they will have to deal with the horrible death of their husband and father. We try
to help in whatever ways we can, but we cannot replace the family or the love that
was destroyed by 's death.
was an American who died in an act of war. Our daughter and our
grandchildren are, also, victims of this heinous attack. The opionions and comments
about the September 11 Victims Compensation Fund found in the attached letter
mirror our own concerns. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Passaic, New Jersey
Attachment 8:
November 21, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Zwick:
Thank you for this opportunity to comments on the procedural rulemaking of the September 11 Victim
Compensation Fund Program. We are a large group of families who have lost our loved ones in the attack on
the World Trade Centers. Enclosed in this fax transmission, please find a copy of the letter outlining our
comments in reference to the administration of the Fund. While this Fund is promoted, as having been
established for our benefit, it was realistically developed to limit liability of the airlines and anticipated
potential defendants of the September 11 tragedy, and to prevent their financial collaspe. It was developed to
offer us an incentive not to sue. We are sincerely hoping it will succeed in its objective.
Attached also are some of the personal letters of those endorsing these comments and opinions. They
are the letters of those of us who are most involved, who are suffering the greatest loss. They are a reminder
to you that this tragedy affected real people, real spouses, real children, real parents. We believe that is
imperative that you do not lose sight of that fact as the difficult task of regulation development gets under
way.
A full package with all the signed letters will follow this fax transmission; however, we wanted to be sure
we had an opportunity to be heard before the deadline for public comment period. We would request a
public hearing on the issues as well and would request that we be notified in advance of such.
Thank you again for this opportunity and for your time in reading and considering our concerns.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Attachment 9:
November 21, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
Five thousand people were murdered on September 11, 2001. They left that morning to work at the
World Trade Centers and the Pentagon and were at their desks by 8:30 AM. Some said "I love you" as they
left, some said "see you later". and some said "don't forget to put air in your tires." None came home that
night. None will come back home anymore for the rest of forever.
In response to the Justice Department's request for public comment on the "September 11 Victim
Compensation Fund" established by the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, we
respectfully submit the following. However, before we begin our substantive comments, please allow us to
make you aware of one fact. Be very clear in knowing that there is nothing you could possibly do on this
earth that could compensate us for the loss of loved ones. You could offer us one billion dollars each, lump
sum, and we would trade it along with all our worldly possessions to have them back, to have them home. The
Victim Compensation Fund is purported to be an attempt to "make whole" the families of the victims lost in
the attacks. Unless you have some supreme power which will result in the return of our loved ones, "making
whole" is impossible. Alternatively, we are hoping this legislation results in a fund which truly is an incentive
for families not to pursue litigation. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to comment.
RIGHT TO A HEARING
The legislation as written does not make clear whether or not we will have right to be heard before a
hearing officer or Special Master. Only we can present the specifics of our personal situation and loss and
therefore rightfully deserve the opportunity to do so. This would include the right to be represented by
counsel, to present evidence, to offer personal and expert testimony, and to present our expectations of relief.
This would require each case to be heard and considered indiviually. While this may be time consuming, it is
the only way to insure that each family suffering this loss is fairly represented and thus fairly compensated.
ECONOMIC LOSSES
We strongly oppose any cap to the amount recoverable through the Fund for economic losses suffered as
a result of the death of our loved ones. Husbands and fathers worked long hours, sacrificing the precious
time they had left with their families and children to each the salaries and bonuses accrued each each. This
income is forever gone; to reduce it in any manner is contrary to the statutory attempts to "make whole" the
family suffering as a result of this disaster.
The computation of the amount of lost wages should be similar to that used in personal injury actions.
Retirement age should be set at 68 and the decedent's age subtracted from there. Gross income should be
averaged over the past three years. The resulting income and years to retirement should be multiplied
together for a starting point for computation. Factors such as inflation, wage increases, merit advancements
and any other benefits that would have earned had the victim lived should be considered and added to the
amount.
NON-ECONOMIC LOSSES
We, again, strongly oppose any cap to the amount recoverable thorugh the fund for non-economic losses
suffered as a result of the most public, painful and horrific deaths of our loved ones. Each case must be
evaluated individually and must take into account specifics such as the number of the decedent's children and
their age, the severity of the pain and suffering of both the victim and his family members, and the severity
of the loss and the pain to be suffered as a result of reliving this tragedy as a moment in history for the rest
of our lives, for the rest of their children's lives.
It is worthwhile to note that families with substantial pensions, with a lost spouse nearing retirement age,
or with income received as a result of the death of the victim could be unable to benefit from this Fund
unless the recovery under this section is substantial. There would be no incentive to pursue a claim offset to
pecuniary loss or minimal benefit. Litigation in this instance would obviously be pursued.
COLLATERAL INCOME
We strongly oppose and are greatly disturbed by the clause in the statute which requires any distribution
under the fund to be offset by "the amount of collateral source compensation the claimant has received or is
entitled to receive . . .[including] life insurance, pension funds, death benefit programs. . ." Since this is a
governmentally sponsored fund, we find it understandable and accceptable to reduce the amount recovered
under such by the monies received through other government programs. However, reducing the amount
distributed by proceeds of life insurance policies of the decedents is unreasonable and contrary to public
policy. It established a system of disparate treatment amoung the victims in that it penalizes some for
investments made through personal purchases, while excusing others. For example, victims who increased
their families' assets through personal purchases of stock or related investments to a level where life insurance
was not necessary, would be able to collect from the fund as written with minimal offset. However, those
who planned to increase family assets through life insurance would have the same distribution substantially
reduced by the amount of the life insurance proceeds. If an individual purchased a rare painting for his estate
planning, sold after his demise at a substantial finacial gain for his heirs, his families' distribution under the
fund would not be reduced. Yet distribution to the family who purchased life insurance instead, if regulated
as planned, would be offset by the proceeds. It is quite simply an unequal and unfair provision.
The government may not investigate or penalize against the personal purchases of individuals. We do
enjoy the right of the protection of liberty in this country, we have the right to earn a living and spend our
after tax dollars as we see fit. All life insurance proceeds should not be considered as collateral income under
the Fund. Most specifically, supplemental life insurance, obtained with personal funds, must be absolutely
exempted from the provisions which regulate distribution reduction under the Fund. If revising the
language of the statute is not an option of this Committee at this juncture, or not an option until properly
challenged, we submit that reduction of the idstribution under the Fund by a percent of the proceeds of
employer sponsored or funded life insurance by the amount of employer contribution would be an acceptable
compromise. No reduction of supplemental life insurance should be considered.
COLLATERAL INCOME/IRA'S: CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS
Pension funds, IRAs and 401K plans are essentially savings accounts of another name funded with the
personally earned money of the decedent. The choice of one's particular occupation or allocaiton of his
income gave rise to the monies available at retirement or death in these accounts. Again the issue of disparate
treatment arises. Individuals who saved in a standard bank sponsored savings account suffer no reduction
from distribution under the Fund. Individuals who allocated their savings of personally earned income to
retirement accounts suffer reduction of the total amount in savings to that which would be distributed under
the Fund. In deference to the governmental involvement in IRAs et al, money owed due to preferential tax
treatment of savings in retirement accounts could be reduced from Fund allocaitons, but principal
determined to be from personal savings must not.
In the end, we lost our loved ones because they worked in a national landmark. The terrorists chose
these buildings, the World Trade Center because they symbolized the American economy, the freedom of
capitalism. It was an act of war on America and the American people recognized this. AS a result, in an
effort to support our country and to unite with those of us who suffered the greatest loss in this tragedy, the
American people donated hard earned money to ease the burden of those of us left to suffer this loss for a
lifetime. Donations were generously given as a form of healing for both donor and receiver. It is
reprehensible that the very charities trusted with the responsibility to honor the wishes of the American
people see fit to withhold the donations for personal objectives, yet to have the government attempt to belittle
the gesture of its own people even further is as horrific as the tragedy itself. The money donated is noted as
"a gift from the American people." Since when does our government have the right to investigate our
personal gifts and require the recipients to "pay them back"? Charitable donations must not be considered a
source of collateral income to reduce the amounts distributable under the Fund. That is not in the spirit of
which the donations were given. Restitution of the amounts by a reduction in Fund allocation would serve
only to financially benefit the government. If that is what the people of this country had intended, they
would have sent their checks to the government first hand.
RIGHT TO APPEAL
One of the liberties we enjoy in America is the right to an appeal. In cases heard before a judge in trial
and in most heard before a hearing officer in an administrative agency, respondents enjoy the right to appeal
the decision. Plaintiffs would have the right to appeal a decision on varying levels if litigation were pursued
in response to the events of September 11. Denying one the right to appeal the decision of the Special
Master is not an incentive to consider merits of the Victim's Compensation Fund. And it is contrary as well
to the standard practices of adjudication of this country.
Finally, we would respectfully request that payment under the Fund be paid in one lump sum and as
directed by the claimants. For example, sums paid to a victim's minor children should be permitted to be
made in trust with vesting as determined by the minor child's guardian.
CONCLUSION
Thank you again for this opportunity to comment on regulations which will bear great effect on our lives
and the lives of the children of the victims. We have suffered the greatest of losses because we live in
America and because our loved ones worked in the symbol of American capitalism. We are changed forever,
we bear the burden of other's hatred of our country's ideals more than anyone at this moment in time. Think
of the children as you write and finalize the regulations associated with the Victim's Compensation Fund.
Think of the children, not partisan loyalties. Think of the children, because if you do not now, you will have
lost the opportunity to support your fallen families forever.
Sincerly yours,
September 11 Victim's Families
SEPTEMBER 11 WTC
WIDOWS THAT CARE
LIST OF FAMILIES SUPPORTING ATTACHED LETTER
Attachment 10:
November 21, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr Zwick:
My name is . My husband, worked for on
the 104th floor and was murdered on the morning of September 11. I heard from other wives who were
forturnate to have spoken to their husbands who told me that was trying to get out after the plane hit. He
was in the stairwell, but could not get down past the flames and was heading for the roof. He called home at
10AM but we could not establish a connection. I do not know where he was yet I am sure he was
thinking of us. I am sure he was crying, I am sure he knew he was going to die. I did not get to say "I love
you". I did not get to say "goodbye". I did not get to ever talk to him or see him again. His body has not
been recovered. He was 37.
We have three children. is 6, is 4 and is 3. They will never see their Daddy again.
They will grow up without their Daddy whom they loved with their whole heart. They will be reminded of
their Daddy's most horrific death for the rest of their lives as this is now a moment in history. They are just
babies. They will not remember the wonderful person their Dad was. They will not enjoy the benefit of all
he could have given them. They will miss him more than I could ever begin to describe to you.
They are victims of the attack on the World Trade Centers as much as my husband was. They must grow
up to know that their govewrnment supported them at this time of devastation; that their government provided
for the casualties of this war and that their government valued the life of its citizen, , who
died because he was an American.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own. Thank you for this
opportunity to comment on the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
North Caldwell, New Jersey
Attachment 11:
Mr Zwick
My dad died on September 1
I am mad and sad.
I miss him.
I want him back.
Individual Comment,
Age 6
Son of
Please be
very aware that
the children
have a voice that
should be heard
also.
Attachment 12:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 30530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My name is . My husband worked for on the
104th floor of One World Trade Center and was murdered by terrorists on September 11th. He
called me twice, first at 8:30 a.m. to ask how his son was feeling and then again at 8:50 a.m.
There was fear in his voice as he said "the building's been hit by a fucking plane" I could hear the
chaos in the background and he then told me he was in the stairwell, they had cell phones and the
smoke was really bad - he was trying to get out. We said a tearful "l love you" and then "good-
bye". I never heard from him again. His remains have not been recovered. He was 41.
We have three children. is 7, is 4 and was just 4 days old. They will never
see, play with or hug their daddy again. They will grow up with fear and hatred in their hearts.
My husband will never hold them or watch them grow up, and I will never feel his arms around
me or have his support in raising a family. They will grow up with horrific images of that day and
know people who hate us did this to us, and our government let us down. Their belief in God has
been shaken, their trust that America is safe and secure shattered, their joy of life crushed and
their lives have been permanently altered. They were so innocent and now they are so scared.
They cry themselves to sleep at night and wake up with nightmares. There are no words to
describe how horrible our lives have become because of this disguisting tragedy. We are lonely,
frightened and heartbroken.
They have been cheated, please don't allow them to be cheated again. Think of all the children
and help secure their financial futures since their worlds have been completely destroyed.
Please accept the comments of the attached letter as that of my own. Thank you for this
opportunity to comment on the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Chatham, New Jersey
Attachment 13:
November 21, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My husband was an employee of and worked on the 104th floor of One World
Trade Center, On September 11th, he left for work at 5:00 a.m., as he had done for the past 20 years.
He called me at 6:20 that morning to wish me a happy birthday. That was the last I heard from him. He was 46 years
old. I was not one of the very few wives who received a call from their husbands during the horrific terrorist attack. I did
not get a chance to say a final goodbye.
My husband of thirteen years left behind three young children. is 12, is 9 and is 5 years old. My
sons will never again have their father coach their basketball or baseball teams as he had done many times in the
past. It was a struggle for him to make it home from the city in time, but he managed to do it. My daughter
especially misses her father at bedtime, when he would read her a bedtime story and cuddle with her until she would drift off
to sleep. This was all brutally taken away from them. My life without my husband is full of grief and yet I must go on
for the sake of my children. I am sure that in his final minutes of his life he thought of the strength I possess as a
woman and mother, and knew that eventually his family would be loved more than anything and which was the
reason for he went to work that morning would preserve.
I find it disheartening that at a time of such overwhelming grief, I am forced to appeal to my government - the very
government that was supposed to protect our nation and its citzens from such an attack, believed that this act is
the result of evil and religious posecution, but I also believe it was the result of a total breakdown in our
intelligence and security.
Because of the incredible amount of paper work that has comes as a result of this tragedy, and the new responsibilities
that I now have to assume as a single parent to three, I am writing in a lengthy letter experiencing my personal
comment on the September 11 Victime Compensation Fund. The attached letter express my opinion and that of my
family. Thank you for the opportunity to be heard.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Atachment 14:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick,
My name is . My husband, worked for on the 105th floor on
the World Trade Center. The morning of September 11 began not unlike any other morning. woke
and got ready for work, kissed me goodbye, said, "I love you", and left to catch the train to Manhattan "that
was the last I would ever see or speak to him again
We were married for eight and half years. We were best friends. Not unlike many other married couples, we
made many sacrifices in pursuit of "The American Dream"
worked for for two and half years. During that time he spent one and half years running their
Haridurt office commuting every other weekend to the states so that we could be together. He had only
returned home permanently in September of 2000. We immediately began our long awaited renovation of
our home, a cold sign that our dreams were finally coming to fruition. We celebrated the completion this
past July
and I have no children. That was an opportunity taken from us on the morning of September 11,
2001. I am 35 years old, he was 37.
I find it incomprehensible that such a security breach and murderous act could possible take place in our
homeland. As an U.S. tax-paying citizen, it is insulting to me to know that our hard-earned dollars have,
and continue to be spent in foreign lands helping to aid and protect those that contribute nothing to our
country. It is difficult to perceive of this continuing foreign relief effort, while there are thousands of us now in
America in need.
I reach to believe that the government who failed so many of us on September 11 is going to make every
effort to restore our lives, our dignity, and our claim in The United States of America.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own. Thank you for the
opportunity to comment on the September 11 Victime Compensation Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Manhasset, NY
Attachment 15:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
US Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avene
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick,
My husband, worked for on the 105th floor of One
World Trade Center and was killed on September 11, along with all the other victims of
that horrible day. Although I did not hear personally from my husband, the fellow who
worked next to my husband got a call out to say that they knew they were hit by a plane,
that they were having a hard time breathing from the smoke and that they were headed
for the roof. The horror of their experience is immeasurable.
We have two children, and who miss their father very much. He was a
very devoted and hard-working Dad, spending a lot of time with them, and coaching
lacross, soccer, and basketball teams throughout the years. He was teaching my
daughter to golf and after her cross-country meets they had planned to spend these fall
weekends golfing together. was my husband and my best friend and we planned to
watch our children grow up together.
I feel a grave injustice has befallen my husband and the victims of September 11. This
was not the first attempt at WTC destruction and my husband, along with others were in
the bombing of 1993. This was not the first time a plane was hijacked. I feel that there
were grave mistakes made on the part of our intelligence agencies, our government
regarding terriorism and regarding plane safety. Our country failed to protect its citizens
to the best of their capacity. The people who returned to those buildings in 1993 felt that
they would be protected and the best job that should have been done to do that was not
done. They have been made the sacrifice in order for proper realization of what should
be done to protect our citizens on land and air. The sacrifice also now falls on the
shoulders of the families left to deal with the agonizing horrific trauma of this event.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own. Thank
you for this opportunity to comment on the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Manhasset, NY
Attachment 16:
November 21, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My Name is , my husband worked on the 104th floor
Of One World Trade Center for . On September 11, 2001 at 8:55 AM
called me from his office to tell me a plane hit his building and that he was unable
to get the doors open to the stairwells. He also said the smoke was "pouring into his
office. I told him to do what ever he could to get out and to call me as soon as he was
out. He never did. He was 36 years old and the father of 2 little girls. is 2 and half
and is 6 months.
Our children's lives and my life are now changed forever. adored her daddy
And talks about him all the time. She thinks he is at work and will be home soon. She is
too young to understand what happened to him but will learn all about it when she goes
to school. was a wonderful husband and caring father who will be missed by all
who knew him and especially by his family.
In making decisions about the "September 11 Victim Comprensation Fund", please be
mindful of the horrific way in which our loved ones were murdered and how important
they were in our lives. In closing, I ask you in remember the individual who spilled hot
coffee on herself from Mcdonalds and was awarded over 2 million dollars by a jury. She
is alive and well today, my husband is not.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own. I
thank you for this opportunity to comment on the September 11 victime compensation
Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Attachment 17:
Hawthorne, NJ
November 19, 2001
Dear Mr. Zwick,
My name is . My husband, , was murdered
on September 11, 2001. was employed by and was
on the 100th floor of tower one, at the time of the attack. and I have
two children, who is 16 and who is 13.
I would like to briefly explain how painful this ordeal has been on our
family. would have celebrated her 16th birthday on September
14th, 3 days after the attack. Instead she sat in the dark, on our front lawn,
wishing and praying that the next car that passed would be her daddy.
Needless to say, her 16th birthday wish did not come true. One the Saturday
after the attack, my son played his fall league championship game. My
husband was one of the coaches, he always coached third base. At my
son's first at bat he smashed the ball to the fence, an unmistakable home
run, but could not make it around the bases, he stopped at second, he
could not bring himself to go to third. because Dad wasn't there, there
was no third base coach that night.
I trust that with these brief stories I have somehow been able to
express that pain we are feeling and will continue to feel for the remainder of
our lives.
I request the support of the United States Government during this, the
most hateful and horrifying act of terrorism in the history of the United
States.
Please accept the letter attached as my own opinion.
Very truly yours,
Individual Comment
Hawthorne, NJ
Attachment 18:
November 20, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
My name is . My husband worked for
at Two World Trade Center on the 90th Floor. On September 11th, I
spoke to at 8:45 am and he informed me that there had been an explosion and that he
was trying to leave the building. I heard from him again at 10am and he was on the 108th
floor trying to get to the roof. I hever heard from again. His body was recovered and
identified on September 12. was 34 years old.
I never got to speak to my husband again. We were only married 2 years and we had just
bought a house. I will never know what it would have been like to have children with and grow old together. I won't get that opportunity. My partner, lover and best fried is
gone forever.
Please accept the comments and opinions of the attached letter as that of my own.
Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the September 11 Victim Compensation
Fund.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
PARK RIDGE, NEW JERSEY
Attachment 19:
November 20th, 2001
Mr. Kenneth Zwick
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20530
Dear Mr. Zwick:
I am a fourteen-year-old boy by the name of . My father was
, a kind man and a wonderful dad. We did everything together,
from going to various sporting events to playing golf. On the morning of September 11th,
in an instant of fire and smoke, my father would never again be able to hold me in his
arms. He worked in the 104th floor of World Trade Center 1 for the offices of and was there, as usual, September 11th. In the northwest corner he remained
trapped by the unrelenting smoke and fire with abouth fifty other employees. It
was then that he realized that this could be the last of his moments alive. He was the only
one there with a cell phone, so most of the time he allowed other people to call their
loved ones. He was on the phone with my mother at the very end, until we lost
connection about ten minutes before his building collapsed. I was in school, oblivious to
what was happening, expecting to go home and hear that my father was fine. That was
not the case, however. I would never hear his voice or feel his loving touch again.
Not only was I directly affected, but also my mother, of course, and my 11-year-
old brother . Never again will we be the same, for we are forever without our
father's tender love and caring advice.
I may not be an adult, but I fully grasp the gravity of what is occurring both in our
government and elsewhere. The comments and opinions attached to my letter represent
not only my beliefs, but I'm sure that of everybody else who is in my situation. Please
accept our pleas and suggestions, and thank you for a chance to respond on the
September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.
Sincerely yours,
Individual Comment
Rockville Centre, N.Y.
Attachment 20:
November 30, 2001
Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Department of Justice
Mr. Zwick:
As you give consideration to the rules that will govern the administration of the
"September 11 Victim Compensation Fund," I ask that you recommend total
inclusiveness for all Americans, and not deny such assistance to anyone based
upon their actual or perceived orientation.
We all pay taxes ... and all who were hurt by, and therefore eligible due to their
September 11 circumstances should benefit from the generosity of the American
taxpayer.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Concord, CA