Girl Scout Bus Accident

Our daughter was one of the counselors on the California Dreamin’ tour that ended so tragically in Palm Springs (“7 Die, 53 Hurt as Girl Scout Bus Overturns,” front page, Aug. 1). Luckily for us she was on the other bus.

It is obviously difficult to find good out of such a catastrophe but we must recognize the positive aspects. The Girl Scouts deserve special recognition because of their basic training. The counselors from the other bus immediately ran to provide help to the injured. All (including the girls) did their best to help. They received high marks from professional emergency personnel for their handling of the situation.

Another compliment for the Girl Scouts is that we were informed, by their organization, of our daughter’s condition within 15 minutes of the first news announcement.

But due credit must be given to the professional and non-professional emergency personnel involved. Our daughter reports that she and other victims of the tragedy were extremely grateful for the positive support received from the police, fire department, hospital, Red Cross and city of Palm Springs. This support included essential items like medical care and lodging. It also included simple-sounding things like courtesy, understanding, telephone privileges (to call loved ones) and showers.

RAY and ELEANOR SUEHSTEDT

Diamond Bar