I was very pleased to hear that those that stole the American flags at the veterans cemetery in Augusta were caught.

A cemetery is the most hallowed ground in any area. The next most hallowed ground is the cemetery that is the resting place for those whose resting place shows that they served in other wars.

How these young people could participate in such a prank really does speak loudly for the effectiveness of their school teachers, especially American history.

In my opinion, the schools should require the history teachers to teach several classes on the cemetery grounds. This might improve the obvious flaw in the community’s education system. From what I see, social studies leaves out too much of the real hardships that American military faced.

I am sure that we all have done stupid things in our youth. Was it worth it? I do not think so. So young. So young and down right dumb.

The delinquents parents, community and their education system have my sympathy. We realize our mistakes when we grow into adulthood. Ask Harry Prout of Bowdoinham how I feel about stealing his gasoline over 53 years ago. I have compensated him many times over in the past few years, but the guilt will not leave me. I am for community service for those responsible. Having a felony on your record will stay with you for life. Now is the time for healing.

Larry Dearborn, state director for Uniformed Services Disabled Retirees

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