This research examines the story of 11 September 2001 from an organizational communication perspective. Discourse after the event pointed to "communication difficulties" as a scapegoat for the intelligence community's failure. These analyses are misguided. Therefore, I examine our government's answer to communication difficulties--more bureaucracy. The many communication hindrances associated with bureaucracy are discussed as reasons to rethink our government's reaction. Finally, further research and recommendations are discussed