Hackworth’s Medals

Re “Ex-Soldier Denies Medals Accusation,” May 17:

The hypocrisy of this whole tragic incident is unbelievable. It now appears that the accuser falls into a much lower category than the accused. Retired Col. David Hackworth, in his overzealous attack on our military establishment, used his position as a columnist to destroy the reputation of the late chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Mike Boorda. Boorda admitted that he thought he was entitled to wear the disputed decorations. Hackworth’s indiscretion is far more flagrant. He not only knew the ribbons were erroneously awarded, but kept them for display. In Hackworth’s own words, “It is simply unthinkable an experienced officer would wear decorations he is not entitled to, awards that others bled for.”

In my opinion, “there is no greater disgrace” than a journalist making accusations of an indiscretion of which he/she is guilty. Maybe Hackworth should consider publicly apologizing to the late Adm. Boorda (may he rest in peace), and all of us veterans.

LARRY A. MEAD

Palmdale

* Hackworth never wore nor did he ever claim any award the U.S. Army did not give him. He survived combat for years in two wars. Hackworth, by any measure, remains the most-decorated living veteran of our armed forces, and should be at least given the courtesy of an interview before you tell us what you think.

JERE CUNNINGHAM

Calabasas