Letters to the Editor #3

Emily,

A few weeks back I found a copy of the Star. After a quick glance at my watch I sat down to read it. As I read your article regarding the military recruiting I found myself vocally agreeing with you and this particular article. After I read the contents I let the material soak in. This letter to the editor is to counter at least some of the hate mail you have received.

I personally stand behind you and agree with your impressions on recruiting and the war in general. I cannot count the times I have said similar sentiments regarding our military, government actions and my vexation with people who not only have a short sighted but ill-informed views of the national events that occur locally and globally around them. For what its worth; I support you.

Bridget Thornton and Andrew Sloan, I salute you as well. You stood up for what you thought was right. Personally, I do not feel your method was effective nor warranted, yet I do fully support that all too often forgotten piece of paper that says we as Americans have the right to peaceably assemble, not to mention the right to say what we want when we want. So, I compliment you on exercising your rights as Americans.

However, I felt your response to Emily's article was strong, but cheapened and devalued when you ended your pro-college financing with a clearly personal statement about your brother. It is obvious that you are more than discontent with the war in Iraq, and fearful for your brother (Which is an understable [sic] position). However, if you wish to make a statement on behalf of your fellow SSU students you should do just that. I you wish to rally around your fellow protesters seeking books not bombs, then be my guest. But do not garner fellow supporters in behest of their best interests, while your best interests may lie elsewhere.

-Scott Middleton