On a recent Sunday night, women and children who were exercising a basic right (that I personally fought for in military uniform) were maliciously and purposefully terrorized with known carcinogens from the exhaust pipes of several trucks flying confederate flags, which are symbols of white exceptionalism.
Endangering the health of our children with toxic fumes – remember, they breathe twice as fast as adults – is criminal and there is absolutely no excuse for this poisonous behavior.
I took an oath to defend and protect the Constitution, which presently is being ignored or trashed. What bothers me is that it is being done by those who have never served the people of this nation. These are people who talk about substanceless, selfish beliefs or agendas. They have never taken that oath to defend and protect the constitution, providing freedom from tyranny for all regardless of race, color or creed.
I have credibility when speaking about serving this country in a dignified and moral way. I served our country during the Vietnam War and I received decorations for combat achievements and service, including two Bronze Stars. I want the women and children of Durango to know that there are many wonderful men poised to protect them, regardless of gender, race, color, age or creed.
To the cowards who want to blow exhaust into the lungs of the children of Durango, let me challenge you:
Your lack of respect, and your questionable upbringing, is an assault on the health and well-being of our citizens, and is, if not illegal, a morally bankrupt act.
You won’t cash that in.
Excuses by judges and law enforcement that they cannot do anything about your actions sound pretty weak to a dad whose daughter was blasted, or to any real men I know.
Your confederate flag is an insult to me, to honorable soldiers, and to the United States of America.
Grow up. Apologize and grow up. Try and become men.
George E. Usinowicz
Durango
Editor’s note: First Lieutenant George Usinowicz served with the 65th Combat Engineers, 25th Infantry Division in Cu Chi, Republic of Vietnam.
