Ibeg to differ with the director of the Cleveland National Air Show who described it as being “patriotic” (“ Thunderbirds delighting, scary stunts exciting ,” Aug. 30). A focus of the air show is demonstrating how well-armed this country is and showcasing its superior ability to kill, which we do either directly in military actions or by selling armaments to other countries, thus enabling wars to continue and enriching the already wealthy gun/armament manufacturers.
Perhaps it’s a difference of opinion about what “patriotic” means? I would choose “devotion to one’s country,” which implies love for, and which in turn implies concern. I am concerned that glorifying killing machines of any kind is considered entertainment in this country. I see that as a problem, not as patriotism.
Jean M