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George, In the seventies, I served in the U.S. Navy as a photographers mate and was stationed on the USS Saratoga CV-60. That's an aircraft carrier. The home port was Mayport, Florida. I sailed on three Mediterranean cruises while in the service. Anne, my spouse, served in the U.S. Air Force as an air craft engine mechanic. She was stationed in Abilene, Texas and then deployed to Mildenhall, England. Our experiences in the military taught us the value of diversity and a greater appreciation for our own country. There are not very many workplaces in the U.S. where you see minorities and women in leadership roles, like the armed services. In the military, you learn that team work is essential to success and diversity is the key. Discrimination based on skin color or gender is not tolerated. Living in close quarters breaks down barriers and as a member of the armed forces you experience different cultures, religions and values. The military is a microcosms of America. While overseas, I fully realized how good our lives are. Our standard of living, without exception, is the greatest on the planet. We, as a people, are very fortunate to have the essentials of life -- food, water and shelter. There are many in our world who sleep uncovered in darkness, beg for food each day and drink from tainted wells or dirty streams. In North Africa, I saw many elderly, women and children living in terrible poverty. I was only 18-years old and will never forget their faces. There was no hope in their eyes. It's a very sad situation. Many Americans do not fully appreciate residing in a free Democratic society where we have choices, opportunities and the right to vote. On Wednesday night, the Albemarle-Charlottesville League of Women voters sponsored a candidate forum at the Charlottesville City Hall. Less than ten residents attended the event, including the candidates. That's sad too. America is filled with stories of ordinary people achieving extraordinary results. In the United States, we all have that opportunity to succeed, run for political office and make this world a better place for all. I like Wes Clark and think he possess good leadership abilities, but I am still undecided. Whatever the outcome of the primaries or convention, I will support the Democratic presidential nominee. Steve Sisson (electronic mail, October 16, 2003)
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