The shining hope that is Mark Trail

The shining hope that is Mark Trail

This is an Open Letter to Leigh Heflin, who dared assault the integrity of Mark Trail (Fence Post, June 2).

Dismissing the fact that Mark Trail is, as you so aptly stated it, a "cartoon character," we shall dissect the situation from the view of a citizen who believes Trail is exactly what this country needs to keep ourselves, our children and our beloved pets safe.

While you so callously attack his moral and ethical being, you neglect to mention Trail's track record as a military hero, having served for the United States army in World War II.

You forget Trail adopted a young boy, Rusty, and saved his life, which was then at the mercy of an abusive alcoholic.

Or that in between "show[ing] our children how to break the law," Trail shines as a beacon of hope to the preservation of the natural world and in shaping our children to respect and enjoy nature.

Trail's mental state at the time of the so-called "break[ing] of the law" would have led him to believe that Andy's life was in danger.

Though the police were initially involved in placing a transmitter device with Andy, Trail believed he had to act fast to save his furry friend.

After entering the premises, he was attacked by the "no-goodnik" and fought back in defense of his own safety.

Tell me, in similar circumstances, as an upstanding citizen of high moral caliber, you would not act in the same manner?

I beseech you, faithful Trailheads, not to allow such unfounded accusations against our hero -- a man who has given so much to defend the underdogs, be it someone who has had their pup snatched or the very land that is the great country.

Marissa Barker

Justin Hengl

Mount Prospect