When I was 19, I was drafted into the Army. I didn’t run to Canada to get out of it. I felt when your country calls to serve, it’s not only your obligation but an honor. For us to live in a free and safe country, someone has to sacrifice. I’m proud to say I served.
But I’m not so proud of my country now. We have spoiled young men and women who disrespect our flag and our country by not standing while the national anthem is played. They also disrespect those who served. Even though I became 100% disabled by serving, I would do it all over again. Would they?
Now the Steelers wear Antwon Rose’s name on their helmets. This young man was riding in a car with a man who later pled guilty to charges in a drive-by shooting of two men from that car the night Rose was killed. I’ve never heard any sympathy for the victims of the shooting or their families, no rioting, looting or burning in their names. They were left along the road like roadkill. My conscience will not allow me to ever watch another Steelers game.
There are cities in this country I will not go to because they are not safe. Some politicians seem to feel violence is OK. Portland! Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto changed a police procedure used in arresting protesters. But don’t go to his house. Armed police will greet you.
Calvin Fatchet
Freeport