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People look at people. Admit it or not, physical attractiveness transcends rank, social class or even nuptial agreements ("No ogling allowed," letter, Feb. 17). As long as we maintain our professionalism and obey both our own personal morals and the Army rules and regulations, nothing should come from a fleeting look, and I highly doubt that any such glances extend beyond that.

The way some of these female soldiers are writing [in response to "No ogling allowed"], one would believe their assailants are licking their lips, winking at them and drooling on their collars.

Let’s not forget, the looks go both ways. Both men and women want attention. The sad reality is that, for many of these female complainers, the day they don’t feel noticed at the dining facility is the day before they show up wearing the United Service Organizations-issued makeup they were all-too-happy to receive.

It’s very convenient for one to be the victim of one’s own beauty, but have you ever thought that maybe you’re being looked upon because there’s something wrong with you? The fat soldier in the ice cream line thinking he’s eating healthier by getting double his fruit and dairy intake through two scoops of strawberry ice cream instead of one also gets a look. I suppose the fat soldiers have a gripe too?

Unfortunately, we live in a society where to feel wronged is to qualify for victimization status, which is essentially the desire to receive sympathy. Get over yourself and quit claiming to be a victim. Soon, you’ll be back in the U.S. where nobody pays any attention to you, and we can all be happy.

First Lt. Creighton NashVictory Base Camp, Iraq

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