Island Voices
Give our military benefit of doubt

By David L. Leatherman
Retired Army master sergeant

Recent letters to the editor on the sinking of the Ehime Maru and the helicopter crash on the North Shore show a misunderstanding of the U.S. military.

None of us yet know what happened aboard the USS Greeneville that caused the first tragic event; all the facts are not known. Perhaps we will never know, but at least give the system a chance to work before pronouncing judgment.

The skipper and probably others are going to pay a very big price. Let’s not forget what happened to Adm. Husband Kimmel and Lt. Gen. Walter Short after Pearl Harbor. It doesn’t matter who screwed up; the guy in charge is the one who takes the fall in the military.

The fact that this is an international incident certainly adds more fuel to the fire.

Comments about the Kahuku incident involving the two helicopters is further evidence of a lack of understanding of the mission of the military. Joining the military is not joining a country club. There are a lot of sacrifices and hardships, most of which the public has a narrow view, if any.

Military people are mostly dedicated professionals who care about their service to their country. War is a nasty business, and you cannot always wait for the optimum weather conditions to do what needs to be done. Just like professionals everywhere, these soldiers, sailors and airmen need to continually practice their skills in the most realistic of peacetime circumstances to maximize their chances of survival and victory in actual conflict.

Unfortunately, accidents happen and often they end in tragedy.

An invitation to civilians to observe military operations is a long and proud tradition. It is good public relations and shows taxpayers what they are getting for their money and of the awesome responsibility these fine military individuals have.

I served 22 years active-duty service to my country and two combat tours in Southeast Asia and I have been out of the service for almost as long. I am one proud American who is tired of seeing the men and women in the military being kicked around at every turn.

Tell you what: The next time there is a conflict, you go in their place and let them stay home with their families where it is nice and safe. Oh, before you go, make sure you have had a chance to develop the skills you will need.

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