Set aside differences and win war on COVID-19

Prior to the U.S. involvement in World War II, our country was divided into two factions. One urged us to stay out of another European war similar to World War I. The other urged us to come to the aid of our allies and stop German aggression. After Pearl Harbor, however, the two sides joined together and we stood united until victory was achieved. That war lasted about four years and cost approximately 292,000 American lives.

Today the number of American lives lost is approaching that number after only one year and yet we remain divided. Masks have too often become a sign of political identity rather than a basic weapon to attack a deadly enemy. Unprotected gatherings are the tools of fools to show their macho defiance of common sense.

What has been called "the greatest generation" fought World War II for four years. They did not retreat or complain about "war fatigue." Truman did not put the battle on hold until the atomic bomb was ready. We cannot put this war on hold until a vaccine is available.

It's time to put our political differences aside, at least on this issue, unite as a nation, and win this war.

Jack Ryan

Naperville