Insult tainted message

Doug Belcher wrote a wonderful letter to honor all veterans (May 31). Unfortunately, he had to spoil it by including a political barb. Apparently the gentleman does not realize that we respect the man (or woman) chosen to be our commander in chief by the people we ultimately serve. An insult to the president is an insult to all of us.

All of this pomp and ceremony is very colorful and very nice. Frankly, after the way American citizens treated us upon our return from Vietnam, it rings hollow and hypocritical. Not to mention about 40 years too late. I prefer the firm handshake and look of recognition in the eyes of a fellow member of the “Brotherhood of the Betrayed.” My wife says I’m bitter. Damned right. Many of us are.

Here in Medical Lake a child will occasionally approach me and ask, “Sir, are you a veteran?” When I answer in the affirmative they say, “Thank you for your service.” It always leaves me stunned speechless and close to tears.

Any time, kid. After all, that’s what it is all about. You, the future of this country. Please try hard to make it a better place.

Eugene A. Artz

Medical Lake