I feel compassion and sorrow for Crandall Canyon mine owner Bob Murray. Here is a person who has devoted his life and energy to an industry that he appears to love. His life has revolved around it. His commitment to it would appear to be sincere and heartfelt. The big mistake was that his personality would not let him just sit on the sidelines when the first collapse occurred. He "had to lead," and his commitment to the recovery may have clouded the real risks in the underground recovery.

I am sure his feelings of guilt were very strong, but a strong miner remains strong. When confronting the families, imagine the conflict the guilt and sorrow would cause him. This is not trying to be an excuse but a recognition of the person involved.

Charles Fratcher

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Orem

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