If the late Ernie Pyle is looking down from heaven, he’s smiling and cheering for the editors and reporter Rachel Chinapen of the New Haven Register.
Pyle was a World War II correspondent who lived with the troops and watched their heroic fighting from the front line of action. He reported the wars from Africa, Europe and the Pacific. He was killed by Japanese machine gun fire on April 18, 1945. Word of his death brought tears to all the troops, and millions of Americans.
Four hundred thousand of America’s sons died in Europe and the Pacific. Six hundred thousand were wounded. These young fallen heroes answered America’s call to defend her against Nazi and Japanese aggression and brutality. Their deeds must never be forgotten.
The Register’s commitment to a fair, objective, tenacious inquiry into the missing war memorial is greatly appreciated. Your reporting reminds us of the absolute necessity of the print media and of a strong military, to protect, defend, and preserve our democracy. War must never be glorified. But we must glorify the humility, simplicity, and heroism of those who fight our wars. For their sacrifices, we owe them unending gratitude. America thanks you, the veterans thank you, and I thank you.
Maria Notarino
Branford