Dear Editor:

This letter is in response to Colleen Baum's letter, which appeared in the Oct. 2 edition of the Beacon. My name is Frank Gavin and I am writing on my own behalf, not in my role as an officer of the American Legion.

I am an officer of the American Legion and a long time resident of Babylon Village. I am also frustrated and upset with the dispute between the American Legion and the Babylon Beautification Society. With regard to collecting funds to support the fighting men and women of the United States of America, during a time of war at the craft fair.

I have nothing but admiration and respect for the work and contributions of the BBS. That being said, the BBS is confusing the issues and I have attended all meetings between the two groups and they still don't get it. This is not an issue of money. It is an issue of civic responsibility.

I will try to explain the passion proud Vietnam veteran brothers and I have with this dispute. When we returned from an unpopular war, we were treated with disdain, called "baby killers," spit at, and our dead were applauded. We now vow to never let our troops be disrespected and forgotten. The average American who has no family in harms way, has no sacrifice in this war, but our troops do, and we don't want the public to forget them. They are the reason you are able to have a fair, eat hot dogs, have a beer and raise money for the great work the BBS does.

The raising of money so the troops will have phone cards and a little bit of comfort when calling home, is not the responsibility of the American Legion (although we love doing it). It is the responsibility of the American public.

I tried explaining this to the BBS, but I don't think they really understood. I personally would not care if the American Legion or the Babylon Beautification Society or any other group placed a "Support the Troops" jar at the fair as long as it is done. If this was not a time of war, the BBS is correct in their decision. But, it is a time of war and the BBS should live up to their American responsibility.

Frank Gavin Babylon Village resident

Proud Vietnam Vet