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Letters

‘Let go of ignorance’

One of the articles in the July 13 issue mentioned that an 18-year veteran of the Air Force, who was outed as a homosexual by a civilian, will be discharged and lose his retirement pay and medical benefits because the Air Force says he damaged the service’s good order and discipline [“Outed gay troops may get waiver,” Frontlines]. This is ridiculous. This man has [served his entire career for] his country. Yet he has to lose his future due to some individual’s ignorance and fear over who this officer spends his intimate life with?

Another recent article noted the comments of one of our nation’s senators who suggests the military do a survey to find out how individuals within the military feel about gays [“ ‘Don’t ask’: Don’t discuss,” Frontlines]. Should a poll have been conducted before former President Truman desegregated the military? Had there been a poll back then, it would have come back with a resounding “no.” Because Truman ignored ignorance and fear, everyone serves together today.

The problem is the older generation finding it hard to let go of ignorance. In today’s society, young people do not care who sleeps with whom. All we care about is being a good human being. Don’t steal, cheat, lie or compromise integrity, and I will serve with anyone.

Staff Sgt. Omar Ortiz

San Diego

Unacceptable stance on MCA fakers

The July 6 editorial [“A black eye for MCA”] reveals an unconscionable lack of professionalism on the part of the Marine Corps Association’s staff in screening member profiles regarding combat awards and legitimate military service. Many years ago I was honored to meet with retired Col. Mitchell Paige. In October 1942, as a platoon sergeant, he led a machine gun section in defense of fanatic Japanese attacks against Henderson Field on Guadalcanal. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism and also won a battlefield commission.

Col. Paige showed me a small notebook he carried with him at all times that contained the names of all MOH recipients, by service, since World War I. He said that whenever he met or heard of a person claiming this honor, he checked his records, which he meticulously researched and kept updated. If one dedicated individual could police the authenticity of medal claimants, the MCA should be ashamed of its performance given the resources at its disposal.

Lt. Col. Ev Tunget (ret.)

Freeland, Wash.

Time for a name change

The Fleet Reserve Association commends Marine Corps Times for highlighting Rep. Walter Jones’ efforts to rename the Department of the Navy so that it more accurately reflects the Corps’ significant contributions [“What’s in a name,” SitRep, July 20]. FRA strongly supports legislative efforts and Jones’ ongoing campaign to change the name to the Department of the Navy and Marine Corps. The Association has advocated this change since legislation was first introduced on the issue in 2001.

The Corps is a separate and distinct service. Its budget and manning requirements are independent of the other armed services, and the commandant serves as a permanent member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Additionally, distinguished Marines have served as chairman and vice chairman of this important council. The Corps is recognized as an equal member of the armed forces, highly capable of providing recommendations on joint and combined operations with the Army, Navy and Air Force.

By also redesignating the secretary of the Navy as the secretary of the Navy and Marine Corps, it recognizes the broad responsibility of the office. And, as referenced in the article, FRA believes the sacrifices of Marines and their loved ones should be acknowledged by a department and secretary that bear the service’s name.

The House recently passed its version of the FY 2010 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 2647), which includes language to adopt the departmental name change. FRA encourages its members and others to ask their elected officials to support this legislative initiative that will recognize the Corps’ important role as an equal member of the armed forces.

Master Chief Petty Officer Joseph L. Barnes (ret.)

Alexandria, Va.

Officers dress the part

I would like to respond to Thorshammer69’s indictment of a “boot LT” wearing — hide your children — a polo shirt and khaki shorts [“Proper liberty attire,” Forums, July 6]. Boasting that he is in his mid-30s and apparently a consultant emeritus for “Project Runway,” this Marine implied that the lieutenant was wrong to “dress like [his] father.” I keep checking my e-mail for the “Tapout gym shirt, backward Lakers cap, frayed jeans with chain and PX shower shoes” addendum to the Corps’ dress code, but haven’t seen anything like that yet. Obviously, your peers will take you more seriously when you can fit them in your pockets.

2nd Lt. Kyle Miller

Findlay, Ohio