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Wednesday, October 17, 2001 To: George Walker Bush Subject: Preventing plane hijackings Mr. President, Baseballs. That’s the answer. Provide an ample supply of baseballs on all domestic flights to passengers and crew. Ground security already prevents bombs and guns from being brought onto airplanes. If terrorists somehow sneak the recently banned box cutters on board, passengers can let fly their baseballs and quickly subdue the terrorists. While younger Americans are not developing their throwing skills because of soccer, most adult Americans have a natural ability to throw a baseball. This means that passengers do not need to immediately physically engage the terrorists but can launch projectiles from a distance and then rush them. If the terrorists start to return fire, a couple of gloves on board will quickly turn that into a re-supply of ammunition. Besides, what are these terrorists going to do, attend Nolan Ryan pitching school? I’m 53 years old and never had a good arm but I’m convinced that I can throw hard enough at a terrorist to subdue that individual. Even a ball moving at 50 miles per hour can inflict damage. At the very least the barrage will occupy the terrorists, giving others an opportunity to attack them. This is a serious suggestion. Do not let its simplicity deter you from giving it serious consideration. It is practical and quintessentially American. Sincerely, Kenneth Matinale 37E Hillside Terrace White Plains, NY 10601 914-420-3215 |