‘Misdirected Midshipman’

No, Ollie North’s superiors cannot bear the burden of the blame for failing to compensate for his limitations. Petrino, as the “highest-ranking midshipman and the personification of the highest standards and ideals of military leadership,” failed the country 18 years ago by not turning Ollie North in for violation of the U.S. Naval Academy’s honor code.

North stated to Petrino his intent to remove from his medical files information that would be damaging to his military career. At the least we have deception, at the worst thievery.

By failing to accept his obligation as the brigade commander, Petrino gave North the message that his superiors would look the other way as he engaged in criminal acts. He set the stage for his future conduct and must accept his share of the responsibility.

I found his analysis of Ollie North to be both self-serving and hypocritical.

FAE SIMMONS

Torrance