THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, May 26, 1996 TAG: 9605230014
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 29 lines
I mean no disrespect to Admiral Boorda's memory and his outstanding accomplishments as a sailor, naval officer and former enlisted.
Nor do I mean any disrespect to his family (which I personally knew many years ago). I cannot come to terms with the idea that Admiral Boorda committed modern-day seppuku because of a possible pending disgrace to himself and the Navy over his seemingly unauthorized wearing of a ``combat V'' on two awards he received during the Vietnam conflict.
Admiral Boorda was an honorable and learned man. I cannot see why anyone, including even a man of his stature, would consider such a situation grounds for suicide.
Daily since his death, I have spent much time trying to understand the reason for this tragic event, but I cannot. I do not speak for or on behalf of the Navy, but I do echo the thoughts of many of my shipmates and civilian compatriots when I say that there must be more to Admiral Boorda's death than is being reported.
Too many questions are still unanswered. Until the answers are presented forthrightly and honestly, a deep unrest will remain within us all. God bless Admiral Boorda and his family.
DAVID S. LOCKWOOD
Virginia Beach, May 21, 1996 by CNB