Walsh shows little respect to veterans

Dan Vincent agrees with Joe Walsh’s criticism of Tammy Duckworth’s mentioning her military service (Fence Post, July 21). Yet, Mr. Vincent managed to boast of his own military service several times. I can only imagine how annoyed Vincent and Walsh must be when seeing veterans’ license plates advertising their service in World War II or Korea, or indicating they were a POW, or awarded a Silver Star. It must irritate them when seeing veterans publicizing their service to our country by wearing caps illustrating their service unit or naval ship. And there are thousands of veterans who continue to show their colors by participating in VFW or American Legion sponsored events.

For decades after WWII one could not hope to be elected to any political office if one had not served our country in some capacity. President Eisenhower was elected overwhelmingly on his military record. Our country honors its heroes. It is therefore sad that Walsh, an Illinois office seeker, chooses to condemn Tammy Duckworth for mentioning her service disability.

Mr. Walsh’s claim to fame is his bombastic “I will never compromise” motto. Yet this country’s great history was clearly built on instances of compromise being sought and achieved between representatives of all political parties for the advancement and good of all its people.

It is also noteworthy that a super PAC from Missouri is contributing to Walsh’s campaign. This PAC has a history of opposing veterans who have served our country. It seems that not only did Tammy Duckworth lose both her legs in defense of her country but she now has to withstand attacks from ugly forces outside our state. Such low-handed methods are truly shameful and are the hallmark of dishonorable groups.

John Ostberg

Mount Prospect