To the Editor:
This is in response to the “Support troops without magnets” editorial from the December 1 edition of The Poly.
Let me first say that everyone is entitled to their own opinion. However, when stating those opinions, a little more sensitivity should be used. Over the past few months, hundreds of troops from the surrounding areas have been called to duty. Because of this many families have been left behind. Those family members can only do so much to show their support for their husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, or neighbors.
If buying a simple yellow magnetic ribbon will show this type of support, then so be it. In most cases, those yellow ribbons are being sold in front of Wal-Mart or other area stores. Who is selling them? Most likely the family support groups who are made up of those families whose spouses have been called to active duty. As a family support group member whose husband was recently deployed, I can say that the proceeds go towards such things as children’s holiday parties and supplies for care packages to send overseas to the troops. Even though the deployed soldiers may not visibly see the ribbons on cars, their families do.
When I see the yellow ribbons proudly displayed on cars, I feel reassured that our troops are doing the right thing, and that they’re being supported 100 percent. Until sending off a troop hits close to home, buying a simple magnetic ribbon is not materialistic but patriotic.
Tracy Thomson
Assistant Registrar
Wife of SSG Gareth Thomson
