Hedtke explains events of Sept. 11

hv AanAA "i tin managing editor

The events of Sept. 11, 2001 still have left many questions on the minds of people around the nation and the world.

On Monday, Sept. 17, Dr. James Hedtke, department chair of history and political science, held a forum to answer some of the questions members of the Cabrini community had about the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.

Hedtke offered answers and explanations for many topics. including why the World Trade Center and the Pentagon were targeted and what the U.S. should do next.

"You have to take your time," Hedtke told the crowd of approximately 20. He said that the United States should assess the weapons power, locations and the situation before jumping into an attack. A long-term set of solutions would be better advised than a short ground or air attack.

Hedtke also explained why the two buildings were attacked. 'The pulse and heartbeat of the United States exists in New York and Washington, D.C.," he said.

According to Hedtke, the World Trade Center was hit because it was a visible symbol of economic power and capitalism. The Pentagon was a "target of opportunity." When the plane failed to hit its primary and secondary targets, the White House and the Capitol, the pilot used military strategy and hit the next obvious target.

Other questions were asked about terrorists and the history of Osama bin Laden's relationship with the United States. Hedtke explained that bin Laden is hopingto win over people by declaring a 1 holy war on the U.S.

Hedtke told the crowd that the terrorists should not be defined as Islamic. The attack on the World Trade Center was one of the worst attacks on the Arabic community, since many worked in the building.

"We must have justice without revenge;' Hedtke said.