U.S. military deserves support of all Americans

To the editor:

John C. Bierk's letter assumes that those of us who rally in support of our military personnel are pro-war. This assumption is not only wrong, but also thoughtless and indicative of the political position the protesters against military action project.

I proudly defended my country's obligation in Vietnam. Anyone who has ever been in a combat zone will tell you that war is not what anyone wants. However, there are times when the talking is over and our military is called upon to put the dictators and bullies in their proper place. That decision is made by our leaders. The men and women who are called on to act in our stead should never think that we have anything less for them than our undying gratitude..

If anyone wants to protest the actions of our political leaders, write a letter or form a group to elect another candidate. But don't give the world the impression that we are in any way undermining our military. The anti-war demonstrations send the message that we are against our military. It's time each of us takes responsibility for his own actions.

RODGER O. BROWN

Cape Girardeau