To the editor:

I served in Vietnam for 12 months and 17 days as a forward observer for artillery attached to the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, from September 1967 until October 1968. I am confident that I served honorably, as did thousands of other military men and women. I am appalled that Mr. Kerry is proud of his questionable service record. That aside, what Kerry did upon returning is unforgivable. Through his words and actions he dishonored not only his service but also the service of all veterans.

Now he has the audacity to expect those of us, the veterans he dishonored and insulted, to support him as the possible next commander in chief of the United States of America.

“Reporting for duty”? That’s something we should all think about! As commander in chief of the most powerful nation in the world, which man would show up, the Naval officer or the war protester?

Sorry, Mr. Kerry, you cannot have it both ways.

Semper Fi.

Marty Kennedy,

Lawrence