Letters, Feb. 25, 1980

Carter's Policy

To the Editors:

Given Mr. Carter's past foreign policy performance, the Soviets might just wish to accept his challenge in the Persian Gulf region [Feb. 4]. In that event, his options are essentially limited to the early use of tactical nuclear weapons or a humiliating strategic retreat.

Alexander Rudhart Wayne, Pa.

Viet Nam did not threaten our freedom: a takeover of the Persian Gulf region by the Soviets will. Did our involvement in Viet Nam so distort our thinking that we can no longer differentiate between a folly and a serious threat to the future of freedom in America?

Ron Markel Maplewood, N.J.

Sound the war cries, round up our youth, oil the tanks, light up the sky with the awesome splendor of nuclear weaponry! We're off to war! Damn.

David W. Marin Denver

President Carter's statement that the American people have nothing against Iran exemplifies the problem with his leadership. He has been so busy turning the other cheek for the past three years that he is now suffering from terminal dizziness.

George G. Daniels Orlando, Fla.

The last Red scare gave us such wonders as the hydrogen bomb and McCarthyism. What will we be blessed with this time around?

Myles Miller Alexandria, Va.

Willing to Fight

I am 19 years old. A year ago, the thought that the draft [Feb. 4] would be brought back some time used to frighten me. Now I feel that if a young person is not willing to fight for his country, he has no right living here.

Darryl Johnson Plainfield, N.J.

War is the ultimate manifestation of the stupidity and evil within the human race. We have reached the point where we must recognize that either war is obsolete or the human race soon will be. I will not have on my conscience that I took part in this great sin of mankind.

Joseph A. Hayes Chicago

The only thing the U.S. should draft is beer.

Tim Pickl Duluth

The 18-, 19-, and 20-year olds got the right to vote in federal elections in 1971. They used the rallying cry, "If we are old enough to fight, we are old enough to vote." I guess those of us who believe in the military draft should now use the rallying cry "If they are old enough to vote they are old enough to fight."

Ervin J. Halvorson Sioux Falls, S. Dak.

Of course, women should be drafted—but only in those states that have ratified the ERA.

Margaret Love Pascagoula, Miss.

How dare a country that cannot find in its male-chauvinist little heart to accord women equal rights expect them to register for the draft? ERA, first.

Steffi B. Rath Woburn, Mass.

What would we give for oil? No less than the lives of our own children.

Sally Lingle Arcata, Calif.

A Good Neighbor

Canada's brave and unselfish actions in rescuing six Americans from Iran [Feb.11] deserve the deepest praise of the entire civilized world. Canadian friendship toward our country stands as a blueprint for international cooperation and humanitarianism. May no American forget this great favor.

Joseph M. Vallowe Chicago

Where are allies when needed? Right next door.

Volker G. Winkler, M.D. McKenzie, Tenn.

When Cornrows Are in Style