Military Officer - March 2008 - (Page 16) yourviews of all governmental departments are, through sophisticated diplomacy, creating a more respected and powerful China. I believe there is a glaring lesson here for our State Department. —Lt. Cmdr. C.F. Willett, USN-Ret. Spring Hill, Fla. 2008 Goals Reviewed Thank you for the “2008 Goals” article [“Washington Scene,” January 2008]. I typically focus on those issues that will affect me, such as TRICARE benefits and concurrent receipt. Keep up the good work in those areas. I disagree with [MOAA’s] primary goal, that of sustaining the defense budget at 4 percent of GDP. … By doing so, programs which could be scaled back are not, and the federal deficit just gets bigger. It is appropriate to have a budget “to meet mission and readiness requirements,” however, I don’t believe [the U.S. military] should have the manpower to address every worldwide need. Defend our country first, and then add some limited manpower to act in situations and conflicts that do not threaten our security. Perhaps with improved efficiency and new weapons, we can insure our security for considerably less than 4 percent of GDP. —Doug Marx via e-mail FALL IN LOVE WITH US ALL OVER AGAIN! Independent Living • Personalized Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Care A major renovation has brought back the polish to Freedom Plaza and we are sparkling like never before! Our furnishings may have changed, but one thing hasn’t: the reliable service and wonderful care which has made Freedom Plaza a trusted name in retirement living. Come experience it all for yourself and let us share our story with you! Call (623) 876-2416 today to schedule your personal visit and luncheon. Just off Thunderbird Road & 101. Four lights west of Exit 12. 13373 Plaza del Rio Blvd., Peoria, Arizona 85381 www.brookdaleliving.com 51140-ROP01-0108 16 MILITARY OFFICER MARCH 2008 Historic High Points Thank you for bringing the remarkable and courageous story of Lt. Mike Murphy, USN, to the attention of your readers [“A Sacrifice Honored,” “Pages of History,” January 2008]. Lieutenant Murphy was recruited into the Navy SEAL program by [the Western Connecticut Military Officers Association’s] newest member, Capt. Drew Bisset, http://www.stcatherinesvillage.com http://www.stcatherinesvillage.com http://www.brookdaleliving.com http://www.brookdaleliving.com
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