The hallowed ground of every generation must be preserved

Date published: 9/17/2002

Sept. 11 was another day of infamy. It is fitting that our area has among its own one who is a decorated hero who bravely fought in Afghanistan in the war that has resulted from that infamous day.

It is also inspiring to know that Maj. David Duffy, who was awarded the Bronze Star, grew up near the Chancellorsville battlefield ["Army officer from Spotsylvania honored after fighting Taliban," July 30].

I do not know Duffy, but one must wonder if the years he spent by the hallowed grounds did not in some way form the man and soldier he is today. The land upon which the Twin Towers stood is now, too, hallowed ground. It is to be treated with reverence and respect.

Even now the plans for the site are being considered with the utmost care and consideration. After all, New Yorkers know and understand that what happened on Sept. 11, on that horrible day in Manhattan, did not happen just to them.

What happened on Sept. 11 changed the course of our lives forever. It changed the course of our country's history and that of the world's.

So did the Civil War. If you cannot accept the preservation of the Chancellorsville battlefield for historic or heritage reasons, then consider the idea of preserving the integrity of the hallowed ground as a part of our nation's defense. There is something in these battlefields that has inspired men and women to serve our country and serve it well.

Let us and those that serve continue to be inspired. For whether those who wear the uniform are the salt of the Earth or West Point graduates, each can be a Bronze Star-caliber hero.

Ann Rolls

Stafford

Date published: 9/17/2002