Milestone Memories

Horatio Alger wrote children's books about those facing obstacles and beating the odds. This theme is fitting as the United States finds itself at the crossroads of two tragedies.
August 29 marked the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina hitting the Gulf Coast, and the country's set to commemorate the sixth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11. For most people, it's a time to remember those who died (and suffered) in these horrific events ... but while it's good to reflect on the past, it's just as important to look to the future.
The outpouring of humanitarian support following these disasters was second only to the sense of unity among Americans. Class, ethnic, political, and religious divisions were erased as people rallied around uplifting causes. First responders at the World Trade Center were hailed as heroes, while many cities -- most notably Houston -- welcomed Katrina evacuees with open arms. Unfortunately, as years have passed, the plight of these groups don't weigh as heavily on the public's consciousness.
Officials at the federal, state, and local levels pledged to rebuild what was destroyed on those days of infamy, but it's going to take more than words to restore one’s faith in government. After all, the EPA misled the public about air quality in lower Manhattan, putting thousands of lives at risk. As for the Army Corps of Engineers, their efforts to repair the levees in New Orleans have been undermined by reports that the system is still prone to failure.
Given these situations, the future doesn't look bright for "Ground Zero" emergency workers and Crescent City residents. Physical, mental, and emotional scars have hindered these people from moving on with their lives after going through such a traumatic experience. This is unfortunate, for it means that society has failed them ... and that may be the biggest tragedy of all.