I am a U.S. Army veteran. My six-year enlistment included two years on active duty and two in the Pennsylvania National Guard. I attained no high rank, was awarded no medals or ribbons for gallantry or heroic actions. I never served in combat, but I wore the uniform proudly and was honorably discharged.
I was taken aback when I first heard Donald Trump dishonor a former prisoner of war, then-U.S. Sen. John McCain, a genuine military hero.
I was shocked when I read that Trump allegedly called those who had died in service to our nation “losers” and “suckers.” This was reported by retired U.S. Marine Gen. John Kelly, who served as Trump’s chief of staff during his presidency. Trump has denied saying what Kelly reported. Who to believe, a principled former military officer or a serial liar?
I was in disbelief when Trump opined that receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom was “much better” than getting the Congressional Medal of Honor.
More recently, I was disgusted seeing photos of Trump grinning and giving a thumbs-up while posing for a campaign ad filmed at Arlington National Cemetery.
All this from a draft dodger who received suspect medical deferments due to heel bone spurs.
It is beyond my ability to understand how a man who has denigrated those who served our nation with dignity and honor will receive votes from living veterans wishing to reward him with the title of commander in chief. Veterans surely know better.
Glenn R. Plummer
Unity