Letter to the editor: Did we really need a parade?

I love a parade. I enjoy the marching bands, floats and celebratory atmosphere. I have stood elbow to elbow, layer deep, on a New York City sidewalk hoping to get a glimpse of the St. Patrick’s Day marchers and other activity. Uncounted are the hours I’ve spent enjoying the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, not to mention the New Year’s Day Rose Bowl celebration.

But did we really need the parade to celebrate the 250th U.S. Army anniversary? I think not. I consider it to have been a waste of taxpayer dollars and served no useful purpose. Exactly what was gained by demonstrating to the world that the U.S. has the mightiest military force ever known?

I have walked in Russia’s Red Square and taken photos of the onion-domed background while I envisioned Putin smiling over his nation’s obscene display of military might. I have stood in China’s Tianneman Square where Mao’s visage looms large along with memories of tanks bearing down on protesters, the place where dictators before and since have held military parades. Their primary purpose seems to me to be an attempt to frighten other nations and satisfy tyrants’ egos. That shouldn’t be America.

Aren’t air shows enough? Can’t we be proud and satisfied with our awesome planes and skilled pilots? Aren’t there better ways to spend from our national treasury?

Glenn R. Plummer

Unity