INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS^®

Harold A. Schaitberger
General President

October 11, 2001

Robert Ross, President
MDA
3300 East Sunrise Drive
Tucson, AZ 85718-3208

Dear Bob:

My schedule has been very hectic since the terrorist attack just one month ago -- in some ways it seems like a lifetime ago. So much to do -- trips to New York to meet with and provide service for the local union presidents and members, establish a relief fund, testify at congressional hearings to secure federal funding to hire 75,000 new fire fighters as well as train fire fighters to adequately respond to incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. The to-do list goes on and on.

What keeps me going and cheers me up is the overwhelming support of our friends from MDA and all over the world. Letters of condolences and checks are pouring in. Since you are familiar with being on the receiving end of this generosity of spirit, you will understand how heartwarming it is to me.

I just received the huge batch of checks from MDA staff and volunteers which you sent me. Words cannot express my gratitude and thanks. Since it would be impossible for me to write each and every one of them, I hope you will convey my message of gratitude to them.

On a personal note, I spoke to Jerry a few weeks ago. His health seems to be improving and he was in good spirits. Please let him know I am thinking of him and that I wish him a speedy recovery.

Sincerely,

Harold A. Schaitberger
General President