LETTERS: POOR IMAGE AT CITADEL

To the editor:

When I saw a picture of the Citadel on "60 Minutes" recently, I immediately thought what a beautiful building with excellently kept grounds, so invigorating and stately did the building appear. Numerous good thoughts ran through my mind. Seeing the neatly clad cadets of the Citadel marching with such dignity, I was overwhelmed with job and respect.

The picture for me suddenly and completely changed. I became horrified in seeing one black after the other explain to Ed Bradley the cruel, harsh and inhuman treatment they were given by their superiors and by the disrespect they were shown. I though and wondered if that is what the Citadel considered patriotism and dignity that supposedly was intended of such a fine institution. It actually is conducted in a manner too strict.

I don't know what the word "citadel" means, but I could certainly give it a name uncomplimentary to its present one.

After hearing the trials and tribulations of the blacks as well as others at the Citadel, I felt sure having to go to war, as compared to their treatment, would so to speak be a piece of cake.

PAULA E. KEMPE

Cape Girardeau