[Mrs. Xtrmst]

Seems like the assassination (?name) pre-911 was the weekend prior to 9-11.

Can't think of his name either, but I believe the Afghan resistance leader was assassinated by a film crew on September 10, 2001.

[freeperfromnj]

I've been searching re your inquiry on and off today because I know it was discussed on FR. It was Masood from Afghanistan and the date was 9/9. This was originally posted before 9/11. Interesting discussion.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/519398/posts

[Right_Handed_Writer]

I think you might be thinking of Ahmed Shah Massoud, Afghanistan Northern Alliance Chief. He was killed September 9th.

[Rutles4Ever]

Massoud.

[Unknowing]

Ahmed "Shah" Massoud, leader of the Afghan Northern Alliance, was very charismatic and also very pro-American, dating back to the Soviet occupation days. I have a Soldier of Fortune article about him from I think 1985. He looked somewhat like Bob Marley.

Massoud and the Northern Alliance were harrying the Taliban with sabotage and attacks. They enjoyed the allegiance of many warlords/tribal leaders. Massoud would have been America's best friend in the region following 9/11, and would have brought a severe threat to bear against Osama, Omar, and the Taliban. Bin Laden was thinking strategically in killing Massoud.

So we should think: who today is a charismatic, powerful, ally of the U.S., who would be necessary for us to react to another major attack on our soil?

[Godzilla]

Can't think of his name either, but I believe the Afghan resistance leader was assassinated by a film crew on September 10, 2001.

You are correct, he was the leader of the Northern Alliance. Can't remember his name though.