Letters to the Editor: Vets Not Immune From Criticism

Vets Not Immune From Criticism Wisconsin State Journal :: OPINION :: A10 Monday, July 17, 2006 I thank Friday guest columnist Thomas Dixon for his service to our country in Vietnam. However, the veterans in public office that he mentions -- Max Cleland, Sen. John Kerry and Rep. John Murtha -- are not immune from criticism for their political positions, actions and voting records simply because they have served in the military. More than 200 Swift boat veterans, including those who served on Kerry's boat, pointed out his shortcomings and questionable medals, and the senator has yet to release his complete military records to counter their accusations. The senator chose to run as a "war hero," so his service record is fair game. Cleland was voted out of office for his far left positions by his more conservative Georgia constituents. And Murtha's "cut and run" speeches and motions will be challenged for their shortsightedness, regardless of the number of years he served in the Marine Corps Reserve and his accomplishments there. No one in public office is immune from challenge, as Dixon demonstrates by calling the Bush administration "chicken hawks." Vets occupy a special and honored place in American society, but they are not the only citizens who are allowed to vote, criticize politicians or have opinions about our country. -- Bill Richardson, Madison