“Airmen sound off on reflective belts” (article, Nov. 5) is not helping the case that people are preaching for “The War Room” (article, Oct. 27). It once again shows the Air Force complaining about something that most other branches of the military are not.

I am at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, and [wearing the belt] is not only the policy, but it is also a safety issue. Traffic on this post is extremely congested. I know some policies seem dumb, but keep in mind that the policy would not be in place if something had not happened in the past.

The reflective belt is neither heavy nor a burden. I hope the next complaint is not “I don’t use my weapon every day. Why do I need to carry it?”

Facebook is not the answer to your problems. If there is a real issue, you should bring it up to your command — respectfully and tactfully, of course.

Spc. Joseph VolzBagram Air Field, Afghanistan

Throw the book at shooter

I would like to express my deepest sorrow for the lives lost and injured during the attack at Fort Hood, Texas.

What makes this even harder is the fact that the suspect is in the Army also. I will never understand why someone would feel he needs to grab a gun and head to the workplace to end the lives of people he may or may not know. I guess what is even more frustrating is knowing that there is little-to-nothing that can be done to prevent this from happening again. I’m sure that the base will come up with even more restrictions for the soldiers and families, but it will accomplish little.

If the suspect is proven guilty, it is time to set an example and throw the book at this guy. Show the world we won’t tolerate this anymore. It won’t bring anyone back, but maybe it will prevent others from doing the same.

Sgt. Timothy ButzinIraq

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