Published: August 27, 2006 11:31 am      

Letter labeling soldiers ‘killing machines’ hurtful

To the Editor:

This letter is in response to the Aug. 21 reader commentary by Ellen McDaniel-Weissler of LaVale.

First, let me say, how could you? How do you have the gall to paint every person in the military with the same brush? You should be ashamed of yourself. I cannot begin to tell you how much your “reader commentary” upset me. It is almost beyond words.

My father died for this country in Vietnam, he is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. He was and is a hero, not a “killing machine” as you described him. My husband served honorably in the U.S. Marines, he is a loving husband and father. He is not and was not a “killing machine.” I believe you said that our men and women in the military killed thoughtlessly, coldly and remorselessly. I believe your words were cold, thoughtless and heartless. Guess what, words can cut and hurt just as much as weapons can.

You assume you know what goes on in the military, are you God-like? Do you know everything and see everything? I do not condone what these men have supposedly done, but that is why we have a military justice system. Those men will receive the punishment they deserve.

Again, HOW COULD YOU? You deeply offended every person who has ever lost a loved one or who has served in the military. You should be ashamed of yourself.