Message From the Director

he terrorist acts of September 11, 2001, have deeply shaken our sense of
safety, security, and emotional well-being. Every one of us has been changed
forever by this horrible tragedy, but we are a resilient Nation, strong in our
patriotism and determined in our resolve to find ways to cope with our losses.

It is difficult to try to comprehend these heinous acts that were perpetrated
against innocent people going about their daily business. It is hard to accept the
profound sense of loss, and it is difficult to cope with the raw emotions felt in
the wake of this devastating act of inhumanity.

We at the Office for Victims of Crime will never understand the depths of your
despair, but we have relied on the experiences of other terrorism victims and
the expertise of mental health, crisis counseling, and victim assistance
professionals to prepare this handbook for you.

Our office grieves with all who have lost loved ones. We pledge our
determination to be sensitive to your needs and to seek justice on behalf of all
who were injured or killed as a result of the attacks on Americans and our
country's way of life.

John W. Gillis, Director
Office for Victims of Crime