War over the sec’y of defense
Manhattan: Chuck Hagel, a distinguished Vietnam veteran, was awarded a Purple Heart (“McConnell holds his fire on Hagel,” Jan. 7). As a veteran and former U.S. senator, Hagel will make an outstanding secretary of defense. I hope the obstructionists on both sides of the aisle will realize the secretary is responsible for the Defense Department and personnel, not policy. Our veterans come home wounded and forgotten after several tours of duty. Hagel more than anyone realizes this results in unprecedented military suicides. His positions have evolved over time, but one that has never changed is his position of country over party. President Obama is to be commended on his choice. John Santoro
Bronx: Why is President Obama trying to appoint as secretary of defense a known opponent of Israel and a sympathizer with Iran and terrorist groups such as Hezbollah? If the President wants to bring about peace in the Middle East, this is the absolute worst way to go about it. Larry Gevirtz
Prize in pieces
Brigantine, N.J.: Our newly reelected President and winner of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize used drone attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan over the past four years that have caused the death of 167 children. I would think the Nobel committee might consider rescinding that prize. Steve Kruger
Those yellow buses
Brooklyn: Hey, New York City public school parents: If you want school buses run like Chinatown bus companies, on the principle that the cheapest driver is the best driver no matter how inexperienced, tired or stressed out, then by all means don’t support the union in its fight to maintain seniority protections. If you think the safety of our kids matters, call schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott and tell him to stop union-busting. Kristin Lawler
Gets one right
New City, N.Y.: I hate to agree with that race-baiter Stanley Crouch, but “Why the GOP is such a bad date” (column, Jan. 7) was mostly correct. Until the Republican Party’s platform is updated to include a pro-choice stance on abortion, it will win very few nationwide elections. Wake up, GOP! Scott A. Jones
Begs to differ
Brooklyn: To Voicer Natasha Cordero: I’ve worked in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, for more than seven years, and all that’s up and coming in this neighborhood are the new MS-13 gang members. Sunset Park is a blemish between Bay Ridge and Park Slope, and it’s been that way ever since I was a kid. Christopher Burner
Speak up
Manhattan: Re “I will die because of docs” (Jan. 6): African-American women die at much higher rates than white women from breast cancer and other cancers, due to lack of proper medical care. This must stop. African-American women should never put their lives in someone else’s hands. Ask questions. Ask for copies of the results of any tests done. Don’t be intimidated by doctors. They are not infallible. If the doctors are telling you nothing is wrong and your gut is telling you something is wrong, demand that further tests be done until you are satisfied your case has been investigated thoroughly. I wish Laverne Wilkinson had done these things. Tanya Bonner
