[I served in the U.S. Marine Corps for five years.] In response to "Diversity letter deplorable" (letter, Nov. 23): The letter writer says, "[T]he letter writer had to completely misconstrue Gen. George Casey’s remarks in order to form the basis for his comedic attempt." I have one question, however: What exactly did Casey’s remarks mean?

His statement seemed pretty clear to me. As a student of the English language and linguistics in general, [I think] his statement, "And as horrific as this tragedy was, if our diversity becomes a casualty, I think that’s worse" is unambiguous.

Let the general’s remarks stand for themselves; let us not make apologies for them; let us not try to rewrite or rethink those words to fit some political or ideological notion. If this is what the general truly believes, then let the merit of his words be judged in an unbiased manner.

In my opinion, which I am still free to give at this time, the general’s remarks are horrific, short-sighted and just plain wrong.

Jeff HuddlestonPearland, Texas