With the latest loss of Pvt. Buddy McLain of Peru, I have to wonder — how many more is it going to take?

What has happened to our state, local and federal leaders? We vote for them to lead us in the right way.

My heart breaks every time I read about another loss. As a Vietnam veteran, I know about and have seen the results of war.

The U.S. has been at it for 10 years now. How much longer?

The soldiers of Afghanistan and Iraq have been taught how to fight and defend their countries, but they still don’t get it, or don’t care, as long as the U.S. backs them up, which means casualties for our troops.

It is time we really stand together and hold our leaders responsible for this.

It is also time for those people in Iraq to fight on there own — sink or swim.

Bring our soldiers home, now. Defend our own homeland. We voted for our leaders — they work for us, not their benefits or jobs. I have had enough of Vietnam No. 2.

Bring our soldiers home, where they belong, with families and friends.

God bless all who are serving now, and in the past.

Richard Shorey, Mexico