The Crash of American Airlines Flight 587

Statement By US Rep. Gary Ackerman on The Crash of American Airlines Flight 587

Coming to terms with the crash of American Airlines flight 587 has been emotionally draining.

As we continue to cope with the Sept. 11 attacks, it is totally unfair for another tragedy to afflict us, particularly in a community that suffered so many losses (firefighters, police officers, EMS technicians) in the World Trade Center collapse.

But the people of Queens are tough and they are great Americans. Despite the strong emotions, we saw the bravery and the valor of the people in the community. Rescue workers whether on or off duty rushed to the scene to do what they do as New Yorkers each and every day. They were prepared to put down their own lives in order to save others. We are so proud of them!

But with all that pride, we must still deal with this sense of unfairness and mourning from yet another horrific incident that now looms over us. But just as Sept. 11, we know that we will get through this.

Please join me in sending thoughts and prayers to those who lost family and friends in this unfortunate tragedy.