Letters to the Editor
Wednesday, June 5, 1996


Old warrior's training saved many young lives

A man who was conscience-driven to be the toughest and most demanding sergeant, who cracked the whip during my basic training 46 years ago, actually was the kindest and most caring person one could ever want to meet. Even until his death May 12, Peter Cabral was troubled that he was overly rigid on recruits at Schofield Barracks.

Yet it was apparent that his concern for our survival was always foremost in his thoughts. He was burdened by the dreadful reality of knowing that, in combat, some of us would be wounded or pay the supreme price.

Cabral fought in WWII, Korea and Vietnam, and was wounded five times. His experience motivated him to teach us the golden rule of combat - a rule opposite of the one we were taught at home, school and church. That rule was to kill or be killed. He had the awesome responsibility of preparing nonviolent young men for combat duty, and he did it superlatively.

There comes a time in our lives when we have to come forward, acknowledge and express gratitude to someone for significant efforts on our behalf. Sgt. Cabral taught us how to survive the war.

So to Command Sgt. Major (Retired) Peter Cabral, I, as a blinded veteran of the Korean War, wish to personally extend my respect and deepest apprecition. Sleep in peace, noble warrior.

Stephen H. Miyagawa
Chicago, Ill.



Zero-tolerance for drugs, liquor was slow in coming

The Star-Bulletin printed an article on May 23 that stated a high school on the Leeward side would no longer tolerate alcohol or drugs during graduation ceremonies.

To this I only have four words to say: "I don't get it."

Obviously drugs and alcohol are illegal for graduating high school students, so:

1) Why the big hype over the enforcement of such apparently clear laws;

2) Why did the public school system and the police department not enforce such laws;

3) Why are we not blaming the increase of drug use, and all the adverse effects it brings to our state, on this lack of enforcement?

Don't you think that the lack of enforcement in such critical areas of law would only encourage not only more illegal activities, but potentially more anti-social activities such as robbery, assault and even murder?

Richard Atama
Aiea



Paperwork snafu delayed decision on faculty housing

Your story about the proposed public hearing on rules which would broaden the tenant base at the UH-Manoa Faculty Housing project ("UH delays unpopular plan on housing," May 24) accurately reports that the decision to go to hearings was delayed.

However, it was not delayed, as your story says, "to avoid conflict with angry Manoa residents," but, in fact, because the paperwork to cover the agenda item for the Board of Regents meeting was incomplete. The matter may be rescheduled for the board's meetings of June 20-21.

It is true that the Manoa Neighborhood Board questioned the plan, which would, if necessary, allow sales of some units to the general public. But bear in mind that this is only a contingency plan being proposed in the event that the UH is not able to sell enough units to satisfy its loan from the Housing Finance and Development Corp. by the end of the year.

Sales to UH and affiliated employees are moving at a satisfactory pace. We've communicated further with the Manoa Board leadership and will report more fully at the regular board meeting this week. We believe their objections will have been addressed.

Jim Manke
Interim Vice President
for University Relations




Letters give readers a needed public voice

"Letters to the Editor" is a wonderful page in the newspaper. It allows people to voice their opinions and speak out to the community. I enjoy reading it when I can.

Thank you for putting this interesting and resourceful section in the newspaper. It allows many to understand other people's opinions better.

Alison Tomisato
Age 10



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