The pride of The Citadel

Re “The Tale of an Underdog,” Column One, Nov. 26

All is forgiven. I’ve disagreed with The Times on many of your stands, but this article showed me why you are a world-class newspaper. The Citadel is a tough college, probably one of the most rigorous in the country, but it is a special place and we grads love it fiercely. Thanks for a great story.

JAMES M. IDEMAN

The Citadel, Class of 1953

Rolling Hills Estates

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I found Drex Heikes’ story extremely well researched and poignantly written. It was refreshing to read a story of physical and mental courage in developing leaders at a time those same qualities appear sometimes suspect in leaders around the world.

Nearly 40 years ago, I had the honor to serve with a Citadel graduate in the U.S. Marine Corps. At a very challenging time we were attending basic officers’ training and the physical aspect was somewhat similar to that described in the story.

This officer from The Citadel was an honors graduate and I thought the epitome of a leader. It was all about courage and leadership for him -- something I am sure he developed at The Citadel. Unfortunately, you can find his name at panel 17E, Line 28 on the Vietnam War Memorial. But had he survived, I know he would have had today the pride of his school described in the article.

JACK D. JEWELL

Mission Viejo