Reader to reader

RE “A Look at Marines,” by Brig. Gen. Douglas M. Stone [Letters, June 24]: The general chides columnist Al Martinez [regarding his column about U.S. Marines accused of killing 24 unarmed Iraqi civilians], “As an American you should know that the accused are presumed innocent until found guilty.”

In light of the current arrests, imprisonments and torturing of suspected terrorists for prolonged periods without access to legal representation or specific charge, I believe the general’s reminder of “presumed innocence” would be better addressed to his commander in chief, President Bush.

J.B. THOMAS

Arroyo Grande