David Chaddock falls into thoughtless and militaristic thinking when he claims that conscientious objectors are cowards (Reader Input, Nov. 4). He needs to think deeper.

For some individuals, following their conscience against the dictates of authority is the most courageous thing they could ever do. Rosa Parks said “no” to authority; does Chaddock think she was a coward?

Our founding fathers all said “no” to their king and country. Were they cowards also? Erwin Rommel and other German generals finally stood up to Hitler in 1944 — but it was too late. Had they the courage to stand up to him 10 years earlier, the horrible slaughter that was WWII might have been avoided.

I respect those who serve their country, and I know that true service comes in many forms. It takes more than putting on a uniform and picking up a gun to make someone a hero.

Does Chaddock’s list of heroes include Lt. Galley, who killed over 100 civilians at My Lai in the Vietnam War? Or the female MP guards at Abu Ghraib who forced Muslim men to wear leashes? Or those loyal Somali soldiers who wage war by destroying peaceful villages and raping young girls?

Chaddock may turn his back on veterans and others who support peace if he chooses. I choose to turn my back on him.

THAD WESTPHALIA, Auburn