It is unfortunate that your coverage of the recent 1st District forum did not include the comments of recent combat veterans running for congressional office.

Two of the three complained about the lack of body and vehicle armor and the shortage of medical supplies and food. Both are against the war in Iraq. According to the Government Accountability Office, the Department of Defense pays security contractors, like Blackwater USA, to provide mercenaries at three times the rate of pay of our troops. These security contractors outnumber U.S. troops in Iraq and are accountable to no one.

John McCain wants more of the same. I say let him pick up the tab for these mercenaries and private contractors, vote fiscal conservative Ron Paul for president. He will bring our troops home.

Patrick Eisenhart

Retired Commander, U.S. Coast Guard

Augusta