As we observe the second anniversary of the events of Sept. 11, let us not forget that this was the second attack on the World Trade Center. The first occurred Feb. 26, 1993, in the form of a truck bomb exploding in the basement of One World Trade Center. This attack was intended to cause the tower to fall into the other tower, bringing both of them down.

Two years later those responsible had been identified, arrested and successfully prosecuted. This was done under the laws that were in existence at the time.

Now, two years after Sept. 11, we have but one alleged conspirator identified, under arrest and with the Justice Department seemingly unable to prosecute. We also have apparently hundreds of people being held without charges, without representation and, of course, with no attempt to try them in an open court of law. What happened to the Fifth Amendment?

We hold ourselves up as a model to the world. We claim our system of government and justice is the best in the world. And I believe it is. So why doesn’t our Department of Justice use these existing laws to find out who is guilty and who is innocent?

If we are to stand before the world as an example of freedom, we must use our freedoms as they were intended. Our government does not need and must not be given vastly greater power. Power that will trample our First, Fourth and Fifth amendment rights.

John A. West, Lewiston

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