To the editor,
In recognition of Remembrance Day, we often hear or read the phrase ‘They gave their lives.’ That phrase has bothered me for many years.
After having been drafted into the military in 1966 and having served the required 18 months, I have found that with only two exceptions, no soldier, airman, or sailor gives away his life. Those who died were the victim of either enemy or friendly action. The two exceptions are based on the Biblical truth that no man has shown greater love for his fellow human beings than to lay down his life for them by using his own body to protect comrades from immediate danger and secondly by committing suicide to prevent revealing classified information to the enemy.
War is evil. The God of this world sows distrust, disharmony, greed and hatred, all of which can result in war from which there is no glory, only sorrow and misery. A more appropriate phrase is ‘They lost their lives in devoted service to their country and nation.’
Anthonie den Boef, Nanoose Bay
The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of Black Press or the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Letters policy: Letters should be no longer than 250 words and will be edited. Preference is given to letters expressing an opinion on issues of local relevance or responding to items published in the News Bulletin. Include your address (it won’t be published) and a first name or two initials, and a surname. Unsigned letters or letters specifically addressing someone else will not be published.
Mail: Letters, Nanaimo News Bulletin, 777 Poplar St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9S 2H7
Fax: 250-753-0788
E-mail: editor@nanaimobulletin.com