Veterans ask only to be remembered
When a veteran meets a stranger and discovers he or she also served, they will talk to each other like friends who have known each other for years. This bond extends across veterans of all generations, ethnicities and religions. On this Memorial Day, I reflect on the brotherhood that I was accepted into, and remember those I served with and those who served before us. No other organization nor occupation will have as profound an impact on my character as service to my country.
While I am not a hero, I am honored to have served in the company of heroes. Memorial Day should be every day. When you witness your baby walk her first steps and hear your baby speak her first word, remember the moms and dads who sacrificed so you are free to enjoy the cherished memories of your baby growing up. On your college graduation, remember those who postponed their dreams so you are free to pursue yours.
There can be no simpler a request asked of you: Remember us.
JOSEPH RAGSDALE, CANTON
More to distracted driving than texting
I am disappointed that normally thoughtful cartoonist Mike Luckovich has jumped on the “texting and driving” bandwagon (“Distracted Stomping,” Opinion, May 21). Studies have proven that any cellphone use while driving is distracting and dangerous, not just texting. Saying “don’t text and drive” is just as incongruous as saying “don’t drink hard liquor and drive.” So why the watered-down message? Well, money of course. We spend infinite hours in our vehicles, and many of us pay for phone use by the minute. Even modestly curtailing vehicular phone use would cost the cell industry billions.
STEPHEN KILBRIDE, ATLANTA
Investigate alleged breaches of ethics
Regarding “Lawn service may break ethics rules” (News, May 26), the AJC is too cautious. (Cleta Winslow’s) actions demand that Atlanta investigate and take appropriate legal action. Since the AJC provided evidence the councilwoman spent those funds with little oversight, Atlanta must take steps to ensure there is adequate oversight of expenditures by all city officials and personnel, including the mayor.
Furthermore, Gov. Nathan Deal needs to appoint an independent investigator to determine if Deal used campaign funds for his personal use and the possible “abuse of power” role he played in the Ethics Commission case, which just cost taxpayers more than $1 million dollars. Georgians want their governments to spend taxpayer dollars for the benefit of the taxpayers and not the politicians.
JERRY WALDBAUM, HOSCHTON
