To the Editor:

I grew up in the midst of one of America’s longest and most divisive wars during which an anti-war movement grew so toxic that one of its strategies was to vilify our returning soldiers as “baby killers.” Once the dust had settled, and Americans examined that experience, we learned to respect the service and sacrifice of our soldiers wholly apart from our opinions about the military engagements in which they serve.

As I watched our Labor Day Parade where so many of our warriors, first responders, public servants, and elected officials (and hopefuls) were represented, I could not help but ponder some parallels between the way our soldiers were treated then, and the way many who devote their lives to public service are treated now. This time it’s not been precipitated by the horrors of an unpopular war, but rather the warlike posturing within our own society by groups and organizations who seek to impose their will upon others.

In our current political climate the leadership of both major parties have decided to vilify all who support the opposing party. Many on each side view aspects of the other party’s platform as repugnant, but remember that not all who support a party support its entire platform or tactics, just as a soldier would not agree with all the military’s goals and methods. Our political parties are not enemies to be defeated, they are actually the people who govern our society. These people give of themselves for our benefit, as best they can see it. This is a good thing, being that their sacrifices are necessary for our society to function.

Of course there are bad politicians, just as there are bad soldiers, but I hope that when the toxic dust of our current political maelstrom settles, people will again learn to respect the sacrifices that those who seek and hold public office make for us. Maybe then, kids will again say that they want to be president when they grow up.

Randi Kiely

Newtown