FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
05/06/2003

9-11 Commission to Hold Second Public Hearing in Washington, DC

May 6, 2003 - The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (also known as the "9-11 Commission") will hold its second public hearing on May 22 - 23, 2003 in the Hart Senate Office Building (Room 216) in Washington, DC.

The Commission will hear testimony from Congressional witnesses as well as focus on the state of aviation security before, on, and after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

"Among the Commission's charges is to write the definitive account of what actually transpired on that day and how it was able to happen," said former New Jersey governor, Thomas H. Kean, the Commission's chair. "What we learn from this hearing will help us fulfill this mandate," he continued.

"We are also required by statute to examine the role of Congressional oversight and resource allocation. Testimony from members of Congress will aid us with this task," Kean said.

Vice Chair Lee H. Hamilton stressed that the hearing will not be the only opportunity for the Commissioners to question government officials, eyewitnesses, and aviation experts about the events of September 11 and ways to prevent such terrorist acts in the future.

"We will want to talk to key officials and experts in private sessions," he said. "But we want to learn as much as we can in public settings, so that the American people and those in the aviation industry can continue to enhance and improve security at all levels," Hamilton stated.

The hearing will commence on May 22 at 9:00 a.m. and resume on May 23 at 9:00 a.m. Additional information, including an agenda and prepared testimony, will be posted on the Commission's Web site (http://www.9-11commission.gov) as it becomes available.

This hearing is open to the public and members of the media. Seating will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Archived video and complete transcripts of hearing proceedings will be posted on the Commission's Web site after its conclusion.

Members of the media must register in advance by visiting the Commission's Web site. Press availability will occur at the conclusion of each day.