With the Yeagers

Re “Far From the Heavens,” by Shawn Hubler, July 2: I have met Chuck and Victoria Yeager three times at public occasions and have spoken several times on the phone with them separately. I am very fond of them both and think their relationship is genuine and loving. She’s no saint -- gratuitously made clear by the article -- but he’ll readily tell you he isn’t one either.

In today’s culture, there seems to be no limit to the depths that can be taken with the notion that public figures invite attention to their private lives. Yeager’s public service in the armed forces of the United States has earned the public’s utmost respect. He deserves to be afforded the dignity of a private life, respect for his decision to spend the rest of his days with the person he has chosen to be his life partner, and the use of his own money to enjoy some huntin’ and fishin’ in his retirement.

Robert B. Tarn

Northridge