Former Navy Officer and Pilot Returns His Wings

[Doug]

Dear Mr. President:

As a young man I was honored to serve our nation as a commissioned officer and helicopter pilot in the US Navy. Before me in WWII, my father defended the country spending two years in the Pacific aboard the USS Hornet (CV-14). We were patriots sworn "to protect and defend". Today I conclude that you have dishonored our service and the Constitution and principles of our oath. My dad was buried with full military honors so I cannot act for him. But for myself, I return enclosed the symbols of my years of service: the shoulder boards of my rank and my Naval Aviator's wings.

...Nevertheless, to remain silent is to let you think I approve or support your actions. I do not. So, I am saddened to give up my wings and bars. They were hard won and my parents and wife were as proud as I was when I earned them over forty years ago. But I hate the torture and death you have caused more than I value their symbolism. Giving them up makes me cry for my beloved country.

Joseph W. DuRocher

DOUG
You can read the letter in full here:
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/031106A.shtml

[Barbara Fitzpatrick]

It's strong symbolism, but not one that most Americans understand. He's just given the "swiftslimes" an opening to go after him, as they did Kerry for pretty much the same thing. Better to join the military against Bush and his actions - DuRocher served his country and his constitution. Giving up the symbols of that service because of an elected official who most certainly is not serving either is not the best way to handle that.