Regarding the July 22 article “Fort Hood suspect drops lead attorney”: Nidal Hasan should never again be referred to as an Army major. He is charged with (and I believe he committed) the most mutinous act of terrorism and murder in the annals of American military history, 13 counts of premeditated murder and 32 counts of attempted premeditated murder. I think he is now playing with the system (as if he has a right to) and making a mockery of it at the same time.

Why are we still wasting time and resources just to prosecute this animal? I think he should have a right to an attorney, then the case should proceed immediately to trial — then bring in all the eyewitnesses, convict him, and sentence him to die.

These proceedings should send a very clear message to terrorists that the United States is very exacting and firm on punishing all who commit acts against American citizens and facilities, at home and abroad.

Larry C. Bostick

Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.

Both groups at risk in service

I agree with some aspects of the July 24 letter “Contractors have fewer threats.” Some contractors do have an easy life while in Iraq or Afghanistan.

However, not all contractors live in CHUs (containerized housing units) and have vehicles to drive. I am assigned to a Provincial Reconstruction Team site in Afghanistan and would love to have those comforts. I do not have a vehicle. I live in a tent with several other people, just like the soldiers do. Let’s not forget that contractors also have families and loved ones back home. I see my supportive wife and two small children 30 days each year. Is that not the same sacrifice a deployed soldier would make?

Also, let’s not forget that it’s not about someone’s living conditions, vehicle or six-figure salary. I have been in Afghanistan for 16 months now and have had numerous colleagues injured or killed in attacks on the forward operating bases at which they worked. The letter writer raised his right hand and swore an oath and knew what the pay scale was going to be and that deployments are not always a bed of roses.

I was active-duty Army for seven years and I do not regret that choice or the choice to become a contractor. So for the letter writer to call BS on contractors’ sacrifices is wrong and insulting. Not all contractors have the easy life in combat zones as he sees it.

Lonnie L. Land II

Qalat, Afghanistan

Migrated