"Yes, we should rebuild and rebuild higher," says one respondent who identifies himself as an officer in the US Air Force Reserves. "Show the world that we are the greatest country on earth with the greatest available resources. We should build a tower that surpasses any expectations to show the world that from tragedy, we will always find triumph in the depth of the American Spirit."

"Yes it should [be rebuilt]" says another writer, "there is no question in my mind. The terrorists placed a high value on the symbolism of these office towers. Well, so do we. Build it just as tall, if not taller than before. Rebuilding the towers would express symbolically what mere words cannot. They cannot and will not phase us...this is America."

While the call to rebuild was virtually unanimous, for many respondents, realities beyond sending a global message prevailed, such as the need to remember those lost in the attack: "Yes [rebuild]," says one participant, "but in a different form. I would favor a group of smaller buildings designed to evoke "family" or "community". Also, I think they should be grouped around a large plaza with a central monument, perhaps a reflecting pool with lights that reflect the silhouette of the former towers (such as is now being proposed as a temporary measure). A delicate balance must be struck because the frank reality is that the site is going to be the tomb of thousands. We cannot simply build over these peoples' graves. Yet, leaving a 16-acre vacant graveyard will be sadder. We must rebuild yet respect the last resting place of the victims."

Many respondents addressed the modern-day concern of building another target, and those sentiments are best summarized by two writers: "The WTC should be rebuilt, although I question the wisdom of taking it to the same heights. The redesign will certainly require formidable structural integrity, enhanced fire protection and significant escape capability."

"Is it economically feasible to anticipate that tenants, especially the former traumatized employees, will re-occupy a massive structure?" asks the second writer. "Real Estate development is risky at best. This redevelopment would require an investor with ice in his veins."

It should be noted that, while thoughts on rebuilding ranged from an emphatic yes to a simple no, the overwhelming majority--more than 90% of those who commented--were in favor of some form of rebuilding. Most of these, favored a design different--and lower--than the Twin Towers.

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