RE: David Markham’s letter about Terry Garlock’s column.

Hundreds of thousands of young men just like Terry Garlock served their country when they were called to duty, many of whom did not want to go but went anyway, because they met the call to duty, honor, and country.

They met that call to a war where every effort to win was hampered by White House second-guessing and micro-managing. If there’s something “inexcusable” about any of this, it is that element of the Vietnam War.

Young men who are willing to answer the call should not be used as cannon fodder in the name of political expediency. Political leaders must decide to win wars as quickly as possible, or not pursue them at all.

Good order and discipline in the military does not allow for second guessing of orders issued or commands given. Terry Garlock was in no position to disobey his superiors, unless he was willing to face a court martial, or worse.

It’s a good thing that there aren’t many “David Markhams” being called to defend their country. We’d all be speaking German, Japanese, Arabic (you fill in the blank) if they were. Mr. Markham should be worshipping the ground that Terry Garlock walks on.

Joe Weigle

Peachtree City, Ga.

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