The March 1st decision of Col. Stephen J. Sicinski, Ft. Bragg garrison commander, denying promised support for a nonreligious event.

SENT TO FORT BRAGG ADMINISTRATION

Dear Sir,

I very much regret having to communicate with you on this matter, but I thought Army doors were now open to all Americans, regardless if they are Christian or not. Yes, I do recall the days (60) years ago when non-Christians were shunned, but I thought those days were gone, and we had matured enough to understand that the intent of our constitution is to guarantee equality toward all beliefs as well as non-beliefs.

While serving in Korea those many years ago, I had the honor to know several Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and Atheist men who served along my side. They were all good soldiers, many to the point of giving their lives in support of our great republic. I am sure today’s soldiers are just as deserving of equal treatment as were they. On my regular appointment visits to my local (location withheld) Veteran’s Hospital, I see no hint that non Christians are not just as welcome as are Christians. I and all other disabled American veterans that I know of, receive equal respect and treatment there. If this is so for we who were wounded and are no longer of use to our military, why should it not be so for all who are now serving on active duty? Are they not as equally deserving of honor and respect as are we?

Please convey my great disappointment and embarrassment at the March 1st decision of Col. Stephen J. Sicinski, your base commander, and inform him that he has dishonored the Army Officer’s Corps of our great republic. I fully intend to also communicate my opinion to my congressional representatives, and ask for his removal from command, and retirement from the service. His actions are a slap in the face to any honorable officer or enlisted person who has ever served in our great Army. FOR SHAME!!!

Sincerely,

(name withheld)