To the Editor:
Daniel Lawlor's editorial cartoon on April 18 was indeed very disturbing. It referred to the 1,556 United States soldiers that have died in the Iraq war and questioned how many Iraqis have died. Two rats dressed in U.S. uniform were also depicted.
The point of the cartoon is one I have often mentioned in my personal discussions against the war George W. Bush started in Iraq. We are all familiar with the many other issues that indicate the actions of our government leaders were poorly conceived at best.
But that in no way allows for the despicable, dishonest and disgusting portrayal of our military members as rodents. While I understand that beleaguered Iraqis would think of occupation forces as the enemy, under that rationale, every American would be a rat.
The people who are ready to commit their limbs, lives and livelihoods to the ideal of being ready to protect the land and countrymen they love cannot be seen as rats. Depicting your countrymen as rats for belonging to the country's defense system is immature.
Yes, the 'defense' system is currently being misused - and abused - by this administration. Admittedly, there are members of the defense forces who are embarrassments to our society, just as there are members of any large group that can be shown as examples of low standards. Yet in no way should all American troops be dishonored. Top leaders, fine; they call the moves. Individuals who behave abhorrently, fine; they are responsible for their personal actions. Most of the men and women sent by the United States of America to Iraq, however, should be recognized for the life-changing circumstances they are living through in the service of their country.
A. Catherine HanniExecutive Assistant to the ProvostApril 20
