Editorial: Turning tables on terrorists

Friday, Sept. 14, 2001 | 4:48 a.m.

The rapid detention of suspects in Tuesday's attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon exemplifies the resolve with which a unified and strong United States will battle terrorism. Those who planned and financed these unspeakable acts have awakened a sleeping giant that has many friends around the globe.

Optimism abounds that the United States will have an easier time putting together a coalition of allies to eliminate the enemy than was the case during the 1991 Persian Gulf War. Even if that coalition falls through, we can be guaranteed that our country will make as its top priority the pursuit of the terrorists and those who harbored and otherwise supported them.

It must be made clear that fighting terrorism is not a simple task or a short-term proposition. Terrorist groups are well-financed, highly mobile and extremely difficult to infiltrate. They are also extraordinarily irrational and unpredictable, as the attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C., showed. Americans must brace themselves for a war on terrorism that likely will take many years to fight.

But the fabric of our society is strong and there is no question we will do whatever it takes to get the job done. Proof of our resolve has borne itself out in the countless acts of heroism by firefighters, police officers, construction workers and other rescue personnel. Many of the stories sound like miracles.

Here at home, Las Vegas Valley residents from all walks of life have stepped forward to show their patriotism and moral support for the families and friends of the victims. One local radio station was taking donations for song requests, with the money going to help the widows and children of New York firefighters who lost their lives. Blood centers have had long lines of donors. American flags have been flying. The list goes on.

We must keep in mind, however, that terrorists are an evil breed not to be confused with the loyal Arab-Americans who have as much right to live freely in this country as any other American. Any retribution against innocent people of any race, religion or creed cannot be tolerated if we are to maintain the sense of fairness that is the hallmark of our society.

All Americans are in this battle together. We owe it to our country to keep informed of current events here and abroad so that we can understand the decisions our leaders make. We must attempt to comprehend these terrorists as best we can because the more we know, the stronger we will become. Instead of fearing the enemy, our nation can use its might and collective will to turn the tables. The enemy may be faceless today and difficult to identify, but in time that will change.

We also must realize that life will go on and that the comfort and peace of mind we have enjoyed as a nation will one day return, hopefully soon. America has had its share of tragedies, including the Civil War, the Great Depression, two world wars, Korea and Vietnam, but we have survived each time and grown stronger as a result. We are a proud people, the beacon of hope for the world, and we will remain so tomorrow, next year and in the years beyond.