Civilian heads U.S. military, not a warrior

To the editor:

In response to the letter "History ignores ignorant critics, recalls drama": The content of President Bush's comments to the troops on the aircraft carrier are not the problem. The concern is that for the first time in our history a president presented himself as a warrior instead of an elected official.

In the United States the military is controlled by a civilian elected official. President Bush crossed the line and acted as if he were a military person who happens to be president.

I think it was good for the president to talk to the troops . As commander in chief he should. But the manner and style in which he presented himself and his office is contrary to the precedent established by President Washington.

TIM KNIEST

Jefferson City, Mo.