We have to elect people who believe in liberty and justice 

To the editor: 

In 1968, I was awarded the bronze star for heroism in Viet Nam. My Viet Cong adversaries intended for me to die, and, at the time I thought they'd be successful. In those moments, you have to decide if you’re fighting for something important enough to die for. I decided yes. 

When the combat was over, I tucked their small enemy flag into a pocket, relieved to be alive, relieved my decision was vindicated. I still have the flag. And, I still believe what my country stands for deserves heroism. 

So, I don’t understand support for people who love dictators and communists. I don't understand violence to neighbors. America is a democracy, where every American gets a say, where every American gets respect, where we are really free, governed but not controlled. 

Not every soldier got to go home, but they all made the same decision I did. We have something important enough to believe in, and, die for — our democracy. 

We have to elect people who believe in liberty and justice for all of us, not just themselves. Every vote should honor American heroes who fought, and still fight, for their country. If we give up on what we believe in, there will be nothing left that's worth a fight.

Jackie Cooper
Hillsboro