LETTER: Zinke deserves nation's respect

As a longtime resident of Whitefish, I know Ryan Zinke. He is a courageous and honest man. He says it like it is. He is an American who had the courage to stand up and defend his country. And he chose the most dangerous occupation a man can chose as an American special operator.

You cannot imagine the hardships and risks our nation’s special operators and their families endure. Why? Because they are dedicated and exude courage to do that which must be done, whenever, wherever, however, when others can’t or won’t. You should thank God that you have outstanding men like Ryan Zinke and all the men I served with in Army and Naval special operations units defending you. Else you would be subject to a dictatorial tyrant.

Ryan, like most of us, was injured or “worn out” pursuing and killing those who would kill you. I don’t know a special operator who served an entire career that does not have some lasting injury. We accept that. For some of us, that means we suffer pains. For others it means our lives will be cut short. For others it affects our jobs. For others it destroys our families because of the stresses. We accept that. Why? We love the country God gave us.

Juneau belittled Rep. Zinke, as if he were a cheat just sucking on the teat of federal largesse. He’s a distinguished hero, a leader — not just another politician.

Shame on Denise Juneau, a politician. She owes Ryan and all of us disabled veterans a public apology. —Mike McNamara, Great Falls