Messages of Support for Embry-Riddle
 
After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, President George Ebbs, faculty, and staff received countless phone calls, e-mail messages, and letters from alumni, parents, educators, industry leaders, and the public. Some were critical, particularly when it was first believed one of the hijackers might have been an alumnus, but the vast majority praised the university for its legacy, the quality of its alumni, and its openness with the public. Here are excerpts of some of the messages of support:
 
In spite of the press digging for "shame on you" stories, Embry-Riddle's reputation is still solid. Civilian aviation leaders and many members of the military know full well the high standards and quality of its grads. I was in the Pentagon when the plane hit. I was recently selected for promotion to brigadier general in the USAF, and I am proud of my school.
-- Michael F. Planert, former member of Embry-Riddle ROTC

I am upset that my university's name has come to the fore. However, I was also pretty proud last night when one of the major networks said "and this renowned school." It was in fact in the sixties when the school began accepting many foreign students. All the students I met were model individuals. I will continue to support Embry-Riddle.
-- David Getman

The worst day of U.S. history is behind us. I never thought I would be required to fly combat missions over U.S. soil. For that I do not blame Embry-Riddle, nor do I think anyone else should. God bless America!
-- Brian P. McLaughlin, Maj., USAF

I fully support Embry-Riddle! There is absolutely no way anybody there or anywhere else could have foreseen this event. If they had, it would have never occurred. I am saddened to hear that we have lost an alumnus.
-- John R. Retherford, 1993 class

I am glad to hear from Embry-Riddle concerning these matters. It is very important for you to be completely up-front and honest with the media and the general public. Please continue to do so; it is the only way to avoid being damaged in this issue.
-- Timothy Stevens, 1982 class

You gave our son, Alvaro Andres Galindo, the opportunity to get the best education possible in the field of aviation. You made him an excellent pilot and a person of extraordinary human values, honesty, perseverance, and hard work. Nothing will ever be able to stain your many years of dedication to education and formation of peoples of all nationalities, colors, races, or religions.
-- Alvaro and Nelly Galindo

Heartfelt condolences for the loss of lives in your country. I am a former student of yours. I have the highest admiration for Embry-Riddle, and I am planning to send my children there when this is all over. God bless you, and God bless America.
-- Captain Eleid, 1987 class

Our lives will never be the same again. I'm sure the school will be supplying our great nation with the expertise and knowledge it will need in order to bring back the confidence and security that the nation's air transportation system will need in the days to come. Your school and my fellow students have my undying support.
-- Jack Perry Jr.

Please rest assured that we know the quality of our alma mater and its student body. We do differentiate between what is reported and the reality of things. As a former graduate student, instructor, and assistant to the dean of graduate studies, I salute my university, its faculty, students, administrators, and the aviation industry.
-- Hassan M. Eltaher, Government of Canada

I am an Army officer assigned to the Army staff at the Pentagon. The impact of American flight 77 occurred a few yards from my office. Fortunately, my immediate office mates and I survived this terrible tragedy. Unfortunately, we lost two co-workers in an adjacent office. I, too, have watched the FBI investigations in Florida. I am as proud of Embry-Riddle as I am of the military in which I serve. Embry-Riddle students should hold their heads high. Go Eagles!
-- Capt. Darrell Oliver, 2001 class

With the tragic events that have happened, there is no room to see any people's or institution's well-being get hurt simply based on speculation and unfounded information. We will be happy to support you and your colleagues in whatever way helpful. As an aerospace engineering educator, I respect what Embry-Riddle has accomplished.
-- Wei Shyy, Professor and Chair, Department of Aerospace Engineering, Mechanics & Engineering Science, University of Florida

Going to Embry-Riddle was the best decision I ever made and worth every cent. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
-- Elizabeth Kemon, 1997 class

Thank you for taking the time to share the latest from Embry-Riddle during this difficult time. I can remember during my time at the university how it rallied in solidarity during times that tested our nation. I also remember the support received from many of our international students. Today I serve as a military officer and commander of a NATO flying unit. Many of my values of commitment and service to country came from Embry-Riddle, and many of my young military personnel are students. The university can stand tall and proud of what it has produced for our military forces and our nation.
-- Darryl W. Burke, Lt. Col., USAF, Commander Flying Squadron One

We want you to know how sorry we are for the unfortunate terrorist attacks against the United States. As the people of Turkey, who lived under the shadow of terrorism for years, we understand how you feel and share your pain. Sooner or later, people who are responsible for this attack will come to justice. All we have to do is keep praying for world peace. God bless us all.
-- Advis Educational Counseling Inc., Istanbul, Turkey

I am so sorry Embry-Riddle has to defend its name. I do not think for a minute that you would intentionally train anyone to harm any passengers flying anywhere in this world. I hope that the international students at your school are not subject to humiliation and pain because of this event. Thank you for educating my daughter to be the best dedicated pilot she could be.
-- Susan Hassett

No words can express the horror your nation experienced last Tuesday, but maybe the knowledge that you are not alone through these hard times could be of some comfort. Candlelight vigils were already moving through many Italian cities Wednesday evening, many of my fellow citizens hand-in-hand with U.S. visitors and residents, mourning in silence. Having had the opportunity to live among you, I am confident your country will stand up and move on, resolute as one, as always. I hope I will soon be able to buy you all a round of drinks at a newly reopened Windows on the World restaurant. Moreover, Embry-Riddle will soon regain front pages for its excellent academic courses, and not in connection with such unspeakable acts.
-- Piervittorio Farabbi, Landrum & Brown Europe SrL, Rome, Italy