As you well know the below signed were the leaders of the expedition to the Estonia this past August. The purpose of the expedition was to examine the site of the wreck for evidence to corraborate or challenge the findings of the JAIC report on the cause of the sinking of the Estonia. Additionally, contrary to current allegations, we were scrupulously careful not to in any way "disturb the final place of rest" of the victims.

This expedition was conducted in the most professional manner possible consistent with the small private financing which the two of us were able to provide. It was a major undertaking which could well have used your support, as we requested, and the results were significant in our opinion.

Recently we completed a series of tests on the two small samples of metal cut from the ramp bulk head. The test results showed quite conclusively that there had been an explosion immediately adjacent to these samples. We are arranging for additional tests to further confirm those findings and to seek additional definition of the characteristics of the explosion. However, since these results bring a dramatic change to the case of the Estonia and will have tremendous impact on your countries, especially in the eyes of the rest of the world, we wish to make known to you these initial results, before releasing the information to the International Media. This will give you the opportunity to initiate whether or not it would be appropriate to to reopen the investigation with an arm's length international group for further forensics review.

At such time as we have completed all of our tests, we will certainly make available to you and your associates, all of the information therefrom. The evidence presented at the Estonia conference in Stockholm last May, certainly indicated that for the sake of the 852 victims, there was need for additional serious and objective studies. We have tried to help move that process along and now believe that with these additional results there is ample reason for a new round of of properly financed and and properly managed forensic investigations. If there is anything further that we can do to be of help, please let us know.

Respectfully submitted

F. Gregg Bemis JrJutta Rabe

M/S ESTONIA S Ä N K T ¿