I was devastated by the loss of my job in March, although I can understand why it occurred.

After eight months of one of the most intensive public and private investigations in American history, no one - no one - has come up with a shred of evidence that I had anything to do with the anthrax letters. I have never worked with anthrax. I know nothing about this matter.

I was devastated by the loss of my job in March, although I can understand why it occurred.

But I am just as appalled that my experience, knowledge, dedication and service relative to defending the United States against biological warfare has been turned against me in connection with the search for the anthrax killer.

Anthrax is a deadly inhalational disease.

I am extremely proud of my service with the government and my efforts to help safeguard public health and protect our country against the scourge of offensive biological warfare.

I am a loyal American, and I love my country.