Gulley's position dishonors the military (04/22/08)

To the editor:

As a Vietnam era veteran, I am more than outraged over the response from the Jay County High School principal, Mr. Jeremy Gulley, concerning the wearing of uniforms for the graduation ceremony by our students that have entered the military.

Mr. Gulley has stated that uniforms may be worn under the cap and gown.

As a reservist, he certainly understands that the military has a policy that uniforms cannot be covered when worn. Army Regulation AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia, clearly indicates that an army uniform cannot be worn with civilian clothing.

As an army reservist, Mr. Gulley should know this.

So why is he requiring Jay County youth in the military to knowingly break the law?

Because of military regulations, Mr. Gulley has effectively banned the wearing of uniforms at graduation.

I have always thought that in addition to academic knowledge, a high school education builds a sense of respect, moral fiber, and character.

In Jay County we believe that this is so important that our high school has initiated a seven-step program called Character Counts.

This program will ensure that our students have the necessary moral fiber and character to become well-grounded citizens.

Isn't this action of Mr. Gulley a complete contradiction to this newly initiated important program?

What kind of example is this man setting for our young people when he states that graduation robes are merely "the uniform of the day"?

Doesn't this approach to graduation minimize and demean the hard work of all our Jay County High School students.

For many of our young men and women, high school graduation will be one of the high points of their lives, an achievement worth honoring and remembering.

During graduation we honor students for their academic achievement. We honor them for the activities that they have participated in.

And in Jay County, because of Mr. Gulley, we dishonor those young men and women that have decided to serve in the United States military. Those students willing to give their lives, so people like Mr. Gulley can have the right to make educational decisions.

I cannot think of anything more selfless than a young person willing to give their life, willing to be wounded, willing to be maimed, to defend ours.

Mr. Gulley needs to revisit his personal policy concerning military uniforms.

If he does not have the character that counts, to make the right decision and allow uniforms, perhaps it is time to get new leadership for our high school, a new superintendent of schools, and new members of the board of education in November.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey N. Crown

Portland[[In-content Ad]]