Having read numerous comments in this newspaper regarding Lt. Watada’s anti-Iraq war presentation in Coupeville, I feel compelled to offer another viewpoint.

I made a conscious choice not to attend Lt. Watada’s presentation in Coupeville. I could not sanction his choice of action with my presence. Unfortunately I have developed an unwavering perception that Lt. Watada is using the growing anti-Iraq war sentiment in this country as cover for his actions. But surprisingly I find myself grateful for his demonstrated action only because I believe he would have been a threat to the health and welfare of his fellow soldiers in times of armed conflict. Lt. Watada would have been a hidden liability otherwise.

Only military membership allows one to understand the “Band of Brothers” trust one comes to respect and honor while in uniform. Unfortunately I believe Lt. Watada has violated that trust with his choice of anti-Iraq war actions and with those actions illustrates another definition of “cut and run.”

As for Lt. Watada’s future? As is said and understood in uniform service, “the military takes care of its own!”

Thomas F. Strang

Coupeville