‘The things worth fighting for'

To the editor: The October 2005 issue of the Warwick Valley High School Survey carried a full-page ad containing the following language: “YOU CAN’T BE ALL YOU CAN BE IF YOU’RE DEAD. There are other ways to serve your country. There are other ways to get money for college. There are other ways to be all that you can be. THINK ABOUT IT before you sign your life away.” The sentences were superimposed upon an array of tombstones in a military cemetery. It is one thing for members of Congress to undermine the war effort they had previously authorized, or to energize the global terrorists by sending the wrong message. But to put in doubt a reason for serving in our first line of defense is not only foolish, but also harmful to the safety of every American. Those who suffered the hardships of Valley Forge, or who stormed the beaches of Normandy certainly did not elevate comfort over personal safety; nor did the men and women on board United Flight 93 who responded to the memorable words of Todd Beamer - “Let’s roll” - as together they thwarted a terrorist attack aimed at a target in our nation’s capital. Upwards of four years in the armed forces in World War II has convinced me that there are some things in this life worth fighting for. And hopefully these ideals will not be erased from the minds of present generations by poor advice, however well-intended. Sincerely, Edward P. Scharfenberger 13th and 17th Airborne Divisions (retired) Warwick