THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, January 28, 1996 TAG: 9601250015
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 37 lines
Regarding the decision by the secretary of the Navy to rescind the promotion of Cmdr. Bob Stumpf (which had already been approved by Congress and signed into law by President Clinton): If ever there was a case of injustice and unfairness, this surely is it. Commander Stumpf is being denied promotion merely because he attended Tailhook '91.
Commander Stumpf is a true American hero, having served his country for 21-plus years. He flew in the Libyan conflict in 1986 and again flew for his country in Desert Storm in 1991. The Navy recognized and rewarded his superior leadership qualities and tactical skills by bestowing upon him numerous medals and by making him the commanding officer of the FA-18 squadron. He was such a dynamic and talented leader that his squadron won an award as the best fighter squadron in America.
Commander Stumpf attended Tailhook '91 in large part to receive this award for his squadron. His talents were again recognized by the Navy when he was chosen to be the commanding officer of the Blue Angels - a very highly sought after position that is given to only the very best of pilots and officers.
Admittedly, unpleasant things occurred during Tailhook '91, and Commander Stumpf was in attendance at the convention. The Navy attempted to make a scapegoat of Commander Stumpf because he happened to be a ``big fish,'' but he was exonerated by a board of inquiry. This should have been the end of the story as far as Commander Stumpf is concerned. That it is not should anger every American who believes in our system of justice.
SUE L. SCHWARTING
Chesapeake, Jan. 9, 1996 by CNB