Remember to thank the troops

Re “We thank you,” editorial, Nov. 22

I join The Times in praising Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-Neb.). I am enriched by his and other key Republicans who chose to speak up for their country rather than be confined by the narrow allegiance to their party. I had a reverie that, if Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) or Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) were to get their party’s nod, they might have the courage to choose Hagel as a running mate. I am sore of heart to see this deadlock in politics and in the nation that threatens our well-being more than at any time I have experienced in my 83 years. Essays in newspapers and periodicals have begun to encourage a move in the direction of working with your colleagues, friends and enemies for peace and survival.

Nicholas P. Dellis

Laguna Woods

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The editorial in part praised Frank McCourt for hiring Joe Torre as manager of the Dodgers. I commend McCourt and his wife for significant support and donations to various Los Angeles-area nonprofit agencies and services; however, there are many not cited who give even more. Torre is a nice man, but his departure from the New York Yankees is understandable after having a $200-million payroll team unable to win a World Series since 2000. McCourt should know Torre’s arrival is welcomed. Unfortunately, he will not be able to hit one home run, complete one ninth-inning save or steal one base for his new team.

Sid Skolnik

West Hollywood

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Grievously absent from your otherwise thoughtful editorial was any mention of our troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Regardless of how one feels about these conflicts, these young Americans are clearly deserving of recognition. More so than any of the other individuals and groups cited in your editorial, our servicemen and women are offering their very lives for the well-being of the rest of us.

Walter B. Christmas

Palos Verdes Estates