A recent article in Stars and Stripes about a high school teacher who silenced a student for expressing disapproval of homosexuality (“Teacher ejects student over anti-gay remarks,” Nov. 17) highlights a dilemma facing the military if or when the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy is ultimately repealed: To what lengths will leaders go to quash the opinions of servicemembers who object to homosexuality on moral grounds?

Advocates of repeal convey a moral certainty that their cause is right, but opponents of repeal are equally certain that homosexuality is a moral wrong. So whose opinions are “right,” and who will have the right to express theirs? Will a post-“don’t ask, don’t tell” military see the enactment of repressive speech codes that preselect winners in this moral debate? Such an outcome would be contrary to the very purpose for which this institution exists. Defenders of freedom should expect and enjoy the full breadth of freedoms for which we fight.

Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire

Contingency Operation Base Speicher, Iraq

Shahan still has many fans

I’m surprised at the treatment toward [former Heidelberg (Germany) High School football] coach Brad Shahan. Everyone knows the team to beat has always been Heidelberg, along with coach Shahan and his staff.

The excuse of [firing him for] not putting the team back on the field in the closing seconds of a game is ridiculous. Especially, since [the firing occurred] more than a week later. It was just another lame attempt by the referees and Department of Defense Dependents Schools-Europe to go after a great coach and teacher.

The firing of coach Shahan is unacceptable. The people of Heidelberg are proud of our team and the coaching staff. Coach Shahan has been a great influence on all kids as they have gone through Heidelberg High School, both as a teacher and as coach — including my son and daughter.

Leave it to the referees and DODDS-Europe to ruin another great year for the Heidelberg varsity football team. Yes, overturning the forfeit was wonderful. However, firing coach Shahan is still a slap in the face toward the team and the European sports programs.

Dale C. Pratt

Pensacola, Fla.

Liked what MOH recipient said

I saw a TV news interview with [Medal of Honor recipient] Staff Sgt. Salvatore Giunta this week along with a description of his actions. His actions showed again that a soldier fights for the man beside him and for his fellow soldiers. The big picture is important but more important is doing your best for the guys in your squad and platoon. Staff Sgt. Giunta described himself as an average soldier and left saying, “just think what truly extraordinary soldiers can accomplish.”

Congratulation to Staff Sgt. Giunta for his award. Congratulations to the armed forces of the U.S. for representing our country so well.

John Baumann

New Jersey

Migrated