Air Force cadet called "disgrace" by professor

VFW Magazine, Jan, 2003

Air Force Academy cadet Robert Krupiel was labeled a criminal for wearing his country's uniform by one of academia's finest. Chicago Saint Xavier University history professor Peter Kirstein had this to say in October to the airman:

"You are a disgrace to this country, and I am furious you would even think I would support you and your aggressive baby-killing tactics of collateral damage. Help you recruit? Who, top guns to reign [sic] death and destruction upon non-white peoples throughout the world? Are you serious, sir? Resign your commission and serve your country with honor ... You are unworthy of my support."

Fortunately, for a change, the professor paid a price for his outrageous remarks. He was suspended for the semester's remainder, reprimanded and reviewed for job performance.

As the American Association of University Professors' Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom clearly states, college professors are specially obligated to "exercise appropriate restraint" and "show respect for the opinions of others."