As I came back from Army P.T. at 6:30 a.m., tired and cramped, I picked up The Lantern as I usually do. I was flipping around looking for anything interesting or intriguing. In the process of doing this, “ROTC,” written in bold letters, caught my eye. I read the letter and it left me extremely angry. I can understand that this little “parking problem” can be an irritant to some people who are materialistic or status-orientated. But you must remember, Ohio State University was founded on the study of Agriculture and Military Science.
Specifically, the Army Detachment here at OSU is one of the best in this entire country and the first of its kind. It has produced a countless number of officers for this nation and a great number holding the rank of General. I do not understand why someone would complain just because of one day out of the week when the Drill Pad, or C lot spots, are blocked for the use of training and securing of our future officers who will defend your freedom.
This pad is perfect for our training purposes. Just because you do not see us out there whenever your so-called “early” classes begin, does not mean we are not going to use it. We go over the Drill in the classroom first and then we execute it outside on the pad. So I think the word “invisible” is a little bit harsh or even uncalled for. Also, you call our drill pad a waste of space? Whenever we are on the pad, we are in uniform and we are training for a specific purpose, not to have fun or show our presence on campus.
I really do not think you “respect the dedication, commitment and sacrifice” we make to volunteer to defend a country such as ours. If you did, this letter would be non-existent. If you respect our commitment as much as you say you do, how about you honor your statement and wake up just a little bit earlier once a week to get to another parking space? God knows we are up at 5:30 a.m. during the week training so we can learn to defend this great country.
Derek S. Connor freshman in zoology[email protected]
