Keep the promise. (Letters to the Editor).

Dear Editor:

They were husbands and wives, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters. They were the victims of the worst terrorist attack in the United States' history. They were the victims of hatred beyond human comprehension.

As the nation comes to terms with the tragic events of September 11, 2001, we are beginning to learn the haunting details of the victims' final moments. Tears swelled in my eyes when I heard the heartbreaking stories of the telephone calls placed to loved ones from passengers aboard the hijacked planes and individuals working inside the World Trade Center. In many of these conversations - what were to be final good-byes - caring words were exchanged between loved ones and promises were made to look after a child that would soon be left behind.

As we struggle through the aftershocks of this devastation, it is essential to reassure the many children who lost loved ones in this national tragedy that they are not alone. While the loss of a parent is a void that can never be filled, America, as a nation must now pull together and keep the promise - we must ensure that no child is left behind.

And while the impact has been the greatest on those young people who lost a parent, no child in America escaped the tragedy of the past several days. In one brief moment the innocence of childhood was lost forever.

As America's children try to make sense out of a senseless situation, it is essential to reassure them that they are safe and that they are loved. Talk to our children; encourage them to share their fears and insecurities. And most importantly, let them know that you, their teachers and the other adults around them care about them and will do everything possible to keep them safe.

It is difficult to understand, let alone explain, the hate and vindictiveness of these heinous acts. But it is not difficult to understand nor to explain to a young person that they are loved and that America will carry on.

Over the coming weeks, as we heal and the tears begin to dry, we cannot lose sight of the greatest hope for the preservation of our democracy - our young people. They are our future and now, more than ever, America must to be committed to making a difference in their lives.

As we begin to rebuild, we must mobilize all sectors of our great country to build the character and competence of our nation's youth. We must help provide young people with the fundamental resources needed for success. At this critical stage we cannot afford to fail them.

As a nation, we must go forward, even more committed to our young people. And we must keep the promise, America's Promise, and look after the children that have been left behind.

We cannot change the past but, working together, we can ensure a brighter future.

Peter A. Gallagher

America's Promise--The Alliance For Youth

President and CEO 

Alexandria, Va.