LETTERS

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Apr 3, 2003

AT THE ACADEMY

Changes smack of politics, not repair

The removal of vice commandant Col. Bob Eskridge and sign, "Bring Me Men," is one of most ridiculous actions to happen at the Air Force Academy. It's sad to see politics taking a major part at the academy.

Situations like this happen often in the military and governent sector. Seldom is the problem solved and rarely are the responsible people held accountable for failure to do their jobs. Instead , they are transferred to other commands. If the sex scandal, as alleged, existed at the academy the superintendent and subordinates should have been reprimanded, not just transferred.

As for the sign, that is a poor excuse or reason for making the change.

Who is Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John Jumper trying to kid by saying "The removal of Eskridge won't hurt his career"?

Leroy Atencio, Colorado Springs

If not men - then what?

To satisfy all, the wall at the Academy could be changed to read: "Bring me Amazons and Eunuchs"

(Note the alphabetical order.)

Don Russell, Colorado Springs

A little redecorating could save costs

Now that the Air Force Academy "BRING ME MEN" sign has been dismantled, I have a cost-savings suggestion for what to do with the letters.

Why not just rearrange the letters to read, "BE GRIM MEN."? (You'd also have a leftover "N.").

Frederick V. Malmstrom, USAFA Class of 1964

SUPPORTING THE TROOPS

Simple pat on the back renews resolve

I become so cynical when I watch the news and see anti-American protestors around the world. I become even more disillusioned when I see American citizens viciously and violently protesting against my commander in chief, the military and my comrades in arms.

The frustration and anger builds until I begin to question whether or not it is worth the sacrifice of service in uniform.

At that point, without fail, I run into one of my neighbors, such as this past Friday night. I stopped in at a fast food restaurant off Woodman Road for a quick meal while in uniform.

While I was waiting in line, a man walked past me, patted me on the back and said, "I appreciate what you guys are doing."

Not more than five minutes later, a lady behind me in line also thanked me and my friends for what we do.

For every hundred disparaging remarks about the president, the country and the military, it only takes one person to pat me on the back, thank me, and bring me back to the realization that I have the greatest job in the world. I serve in the military of the United States of America.

I know every man and woman in uniform sincerely appreciate your gratitude, Colorado Springs.

Capt. Jonathan Kusy, U.S. Air Force, Colorado Springs

Thanks for honking to show support

On behalf of all the people that stood on corners Tuesday waving flags and posters supporting the troops, we want to thank everyone who honked.

And for those people that were unable to find their horns, they are usually located in the center of the steering wheel.

Barbara and Gary Turley, Colorado Springs

TRANSPORTATION TROUBLES

T-Rex consuming too much of the budget

A couple weeks ago, the Colorado Department of Transportation released its annual report, and the news for Colorado Springs is not good. T-Rex is gobbling up most of the state's transportation dollars, and El Paso County's share is far from adequate.

As a result, Powers Boulevard in Colorado Springs is only 7 percent completed and the portion of I-25 that runs through the Springs is only 23 percent completed. This is unacceptable.

Road and highway repair is one of the most pressing issues confronting our community. As you know, congested roads, lengthened commutes, and delayed commerce reduce economic productivity by hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, and taxpayers are given the bill.

I want to work with my fellow El Paso County legislators to ensure the county receives its fair share of transportation funding from the Colorado state government. With sufficient funding, we can complete the road and highway improvements and expansion projects in a timely manner.

I am proposing legislation that will restore much-needed funding to our local transportation projects this fiscal year. We have been on the short end of the stick when it comes to transportation funding for too many years.

As one of the state's major metropolitan hubs and tourist destinations, El Paso County and Colorado Springs need to receive a fair share of the transportation budget, and I will fight to ensure that we do. Our local economy and our quality of life deserve nothing less.

Please feel free to contact my office at (303) 866-2932 if you have any concerns about any issue.

Michael Merrifield, State Representative, District 18, Manitou Springs

SHOWING SUPPORT

Hang a blue star banner, not a yellow ribbon

Blue Star Banners are a more traditional and historical way than yellow ribbons to honor your loved one in the Armed Forces. Families have been hanging Blue Star Banners in windows since World War I. A blue star is included on the banner for each family member serving, up to five. If a soldier or sailor is killed in action, a silver star replaces the blue.