Another graduation interrupted
Re: “ ‘I have nothing to look forward to’,” April 8 news story
On Dec. 8, 1941, the day after Pearl Harbor, my dad and several classmates, out of a sense of duty and love of country, enlisted in the Navy. Once papers were completed, they returned to Rice University and attended to their studies.
When my dad completed the last final of his senior year, he was whisked off to basic training. For him, no cap and gown were issued, no “Pomp and Circumstance” was played, his name was not called, he did not make the trek across the stage to exchange handshakes and receive his diploma. It was mailed to his parents’ home.
My dad lived with that hole in his life until the spring of 1998. Rice University stepped up and invited all World War II veterans the opportunity to “graduate.” Nothing could have kept my dad away. At long last, a cap and gown were issued, “Pomp and Circumstance” was played, his name was called, he made the trek across the stage to exchange handshakes and receive his diploma. Then the graduating Class of 1998, on behalf of a grateful nation, stood and cheered, in effect saying, “Thank you. Job well done.” On that day, my dad was 77 years old, and it was the first time I knew him to shed a tear.
It is my most fervent wish that all high schools, colleges and universities step up and not have the graduates of the Class of 2020 wait 56 years to be invited back to receive the recognition they so richly deserve.
With a congratulatory tip of the hat to all 2020 graduates, job well done.
Douglas M. Ward, Highlands Ranch
Not OK with fateful decisions
Re: “Patient care rules decided,” April 6 news story
The front-page article kind of hit a nerve. I came out here to the University of Denver in 1963, and this has been my home since, with the exception of my time in Vietnam. The new “rules” seem to put those of us who helped this state grow into the wastebasket when it comes to health, whether a native or old-time transplant. After 50 years of loyalty, taxes and existing in this ever-changing state, it seems this longevity means nil. Some 20-year-old hippie ski bum rates much better than the old guys.
Is Gov. Richard Lamm on this selection committee?
Steve Wagner, Aurora
Fauci late to acknowledge danger
We all know the hatred for President Donald Trump, especially during these trying times. In my opinion, it is a hatred of his personality. If you are able to think critically, you can rise above his personality and look at the good.
The media seem to put a crown on Dr. Anthony Fauci and declare him a saint but are loathe to report anything positive about President Trump. Dr. Fauci is very intelligent, a great doctor and a great communicator, but he has his faults also. Early on in the pandemic, on Jan. 21, he said there was no threat to America and that we need not worry. Then on Feb. 17, in an interview with USA Today, he said the threat was “minuscule.”
If Trump had said these remarks, he would now be pilloried.
We must support both of these men during these times. No one is perfect or has a crystal ball.
Kay Robbins, Denver
The governor’s resolve
I, for one, am very proud we have a governor who is acting proactively on behalf of the citizens of Colorado in securing necessary medical supplies to fight the coronavirus. Gov. Jared Polis shows the kind of leadership insight and aggressive actions we need to win this war — something the federal government is unable to do in a timely fashion. We should all be grateful and supportive of the governor’s efforts for us.
Rosetta Rogers, Aurora
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