To the editor:

In reading many of the submitted and published letters to the editor, I see so many wannabe heroes in print profess their knowledge on how to make a better America. These authors submit their policy changes and knowledge from the comfort of their homes without ever knowing the true meaning of sacrifice and patriotism in the building and protection of the nation in which they live.

Unfortunately much of our representation in our local, state and federal government fall within this wannabe group. True knowledge of leadership is based on sacrifice and patriotism in the protection and building of a nation. So many in our nation’s leadership have failed miserably over the past years. It seems to be much easier to give handouts for a vote, than to give handups that provide opportunity for life. As the Proverb states, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” As seen over the years, handouts deny opportunity, but create control and isolation without creating responsibility.

This letter to the editor will not take many of you wannabes away from your podiums or desks. Over the years I have heard all your excuses. Remember this when writing your next letter on how you would change this nation, “The greatest gift we can give in life is that of ourselves.” Or, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” How many of you writers can put into print what sacrifices you have made in the building and protection of our nation?

All I ask of this great nation is to take the time and reflect on our Veterans Day, Memorial Day and every day each citizen is afforded the opportunity to live in this great nation. And, to remember, honor and learn from the sacrifices of our veterans. They are the true heroes of this nation whose sacrifices and patriotism provided to all our citizens the true meaning of freedom. Paying tribute to all those false idol wannabes divide and destroy a nation, not strengthen a nation.

For those of us who fought for it, freedom has a flavor the protected will never know.

God Bless America.

Jack Wagner, Commander

The Military Order of the Purple Heart

(Lee, Collier & Hendry Counties)

The Combat Infantrymen’s Association, Inc

(All States east of the Mississippi River)

Cape Coral