A Swiss Federal Counsellor Talks about 9.11

Pascal Couchpin is a retired Swiss Federal Counsellor. There are seven FCs, and they are the equivalent of the American executive branch of government. Each one takes turns being president of the Swiss Confederation, but only for one year each time. It's a system that is unique in western politics and it works well for the Swiss who are by nature politically conservative and who prefer consensus to conflict. Monsieur Couchpin is from the Valais, a canton (state) in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. He and another retired FC were interviewed today in one of the French language Swiss morning papers about where they were and how they felt and reacted on 9.11.
Pascal Couchpin, a lawyer and somewhat of a perfectionist - more directed at himself than at others - was in Paris when the attack occurred. He was in an official meeting with French government members when the Swiss Embassy came to take him back to the Embassy to watch what was unfolding on television.
When the reporter of today's interview asked him what image he has retained of the events of 9.11, here is what Monsieur Couchpin answered:

"The force of the Americans. They reacted in an exemplary fashion. They immediately closed their airspace. The president was hidden, safeguarded, for several hours during which the vice president was visible for the public. Then the president appeared in New York City, where he needed to be. Mr. Giuliani, the mayor of New York, also comported himself in an incredible manner and with formidable composure. Americans are peaceful by nature but if someone riles them, they know how to react. On 9.11, they showed their immense solidarity. They controlled their emotions and made use of their strong national symbols. I admit that I have great admiration for the American  sense of civic pride."

It's nice to hear good words sometimes. Remember, if you are American, that there are millions of people all over the world who like you, who respect you and your country, and who are suffering with you as the 10th anniversary of 9.11 approaches.