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We all understand that adults in our local communities influence our children. So what is happening to our children when honor and integrity become just words to some of these adults?

These words have strong meaning to military members and their families. When you become a soldier or accept a military life, the meaning of these words become a part of what you are and, as such, become something worth fighting for.

In September 2009, I filed an ethics complaint against an individual with a local leadership position working for Department of Defense Dependents Schools Europe. This person demonstrated a lack of honor and integrity. DODDS-E never even acknowledged receipt of the complaint. So I contacted Department of Defense Education Activity in Washington, D.C. It acknowledged receipt, and after several weeks I asked for an update. They never acknowledged my request or e-mails again.

Next, I sent the issue to my congresswoman. After a couple of months DODEA sent my congresswoman a short letter saying the issue was handled, a short letter with a large inaccuracy in it.

This inaccuracy, plus the fact that myself and witnesses who attached statements to my complaint were never interviewed, leads me to two very sad conclusions:

I write this letter to inform parents who must make decisions about their child’s education and growth. I also invite adult conversation on this topic, something I was unable to find at DODDS-E or DODEA.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Pete Streker (retired)Bamberg, Germany

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