Jet Sale to Saudis

Your editorial, “Hail to the Chief (Salesman)!” (Feb. 18), regarding President Clinton’s role in the Saudis’ decision to purchase 50 or more jetliners from Boeing and McDonnell Douglas is very good example of revisionism at work. The world knows that it was George Bush who led the fight against Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, thereby ensuring the safety of the vast Saudi oil fields. The Saudis are showing their gratitude to the U.S. with this large order, which helps our aerospace industry. Clinton had nothing to do with their decision.

HERBERT L. PORTER

Newport Beach

It is good news that the President helped the Saudis conclude that buying McDonnell Douglas and Boeing planes was good business. Now, if we can only convince the management of McDonnell Douglas to build the planes here in Long Beach, rather than in China as they did the last five commercial planes, perhaps California will benefit too!

RALPH D. DEARDEN

Santa Maria