‘Cronies and Honors’

Your editorial (April 27), “Cronies and Honors,” vilifying the late Justin Dart upon his being awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Reagan, was appalling.

I worked for Justin Dart for 15 years, and I can honestly say that he was the most patriotic person I ever met. He loved his country and believed that Ronald Reagan could restore our economic vitality--a belief that was validated by the voters of 49 states in 1984.

Justin tried to inspire the people around him to get involved in the process, regardless of party affiliation. His goal was the improvement of the country, not to gain political access or self-gain.

He gave unselfishly of his time to USC, Good Samaritan Hospital, the California Roundtable and many other charities and institutions.

Your editorial is right, his service does speak for itself.

SID KARSH

La Canada Flintridge