Joe McNeilly chose to join the National Guard in 2003 (LSJ, Aug. 21).

That means that he knew full well that he could be sent overseas into battle.

By joining, he knew he would be separated from his son for months, maybe years, possibly killed; yet he joined anyway. Now he wants to play martyr/oppressed soldier and blame the often maligned Friend of the Court for using his tour against him, (even though the reported evidence says otherwise).

Let's see this for what it is. McNeilly chose to do something that he wanted to do, that had consequences he didn't think of, and now he wants our sympathy.

Too bad his child will be put in the middle of his poor choice.

Sue Grange
Corunna