George,

It is most unfortunate support for the troops deployed in the Middle East has been tied to support for George Bush's Pre-emptive War of Aggression on Iraq.

My patriotism should not be questioned because I do not support Bush, nor should the level of mysupport for the troops be subject to speculation. As a patriotic act, I believe it is my duty to protest policy articulated in my name when I do not think that policy is right.

I was not at the rally because I was out of town but those who did are not all students and a competent and caring representative would not dismiss the actions of those opposed to this war, with a flip remark implying that one can expect such action from college students.

Mr. Bell should apologize to the people of Charlottesville or step down from his place of leadership.

Martha Wood (electronic mail, March 17, 2003)