Soldiers deserve respect, support

To the editor:I cannot believe how angry I felt after reading another Speak Out comment that continues to put down our soldiers as ignoramuses, implying that those who are low-income or from a rural area are somehow not as bright as higher-income city dwellers.

Where and when did the left-wing liberals decide that if you were from a rural area or a low-income category, the military is the only place for you? I have had many relatives who have joined the military. Some have survived, and some have not. None was stupid. All chose the military out of a desire to serve their country or as an excellent career opportunity and a way to further their educations through military benefits.

All soldiers should have our respect and support. Many career choices may involve a risk to one's life. However, it is the responsibility of our elected officials to see that proper and sufficient funding is provided to our soldiers to protect themselves and to do their jobs. Elected officials who do not properly support our soldiers are the people putting our soldiers at higher risk to lose their lives. Please remember their voting record on election day.

If our soldiers need additional funding, let's hold off on funding new highways or other projects.

I can respect others who are anti-war. I cannot respect those who endanger our soldiers through nonsupport once war has been declared. Our soldiers are fighting terrorism throughout the world. Please remind your elected official to support our troops.

CAROL McCARTY, Cape Girardeau