Following is a copy of the letter that was sent to the Scottish Minister of "Justice" by myself and other members of World Wings International, the official organization of former Pan American flight attendants, protesting the release of Abdel Basset al-Megrahi by Mr. MacAskill and Scottish authorities. Please allow your readers to share in the grief of the many families who were affected by this horrible massacre of innocent individuals flying home for the holidays just before Christmas in 1988.
As a former employee of Pan American World Airways, I am shocked and saddened by the decision of the Scottish government to release the convicted bomber of Pan Am Flight 103, Abdel Basset al-Megrahi, on "compassionate" grounds.
Every Dec. 21, Pan Amers around the world pause to remember that dreadful day in 1988 when Clipper Maid of the Seas was blown out of the skies over Lockerbie, Scotland. And may I remind you that it was 1988, not 1998, as you repeatedly stated in your interview on CNN which was most notable for its arrogance, insensitivity and hostility.
Many of us visit Arlington National Cemetery to mourn the 16 Pan Am crew members and all of the individuals who perished because of this despicable and cowardly act. We find comfort in the presence of the Lockerbie Memorial Cairn, donated by the people of the town and a fitting symbol of Scotland's heritage.
Your decision, Mr. MacAskill, does not honor that heritage or the brave people of Lockerbie. It dishonors the victims and causes profound pain to their families and friends, ripping open wounds that have never truly healed.
And while we understand that your decision does not reflect the feelings of the majority of the Scottish people, or indeed of the people of the United Kingdom, your actions dishonored them as well.
Worst of all, you have put individuals the world over in harm's way. How many terrorists will be emboldened by this decision? Where will your "compassion" be when they strike again?
The crew members who died were part of our Pan Am family and we still mourn them. Many former Pan Am employees are still airborne, working for other airlines and trying to maintain high standards of service and safety. Your decision makes that job more difficult.
I can only speculate on the real reasons behind this thoroughly irresponsible and self-serving decision. But I doubt very much that compassion played a role.
