21-gun salute is not for all
With respect to a letter to the editor (June 3), the writer has been provided incorrect information on the 21-gun salute.
The 21-gun salute is reserved specifically for funerals of military personnel and heads of state.
The salute for heads of state at ceremonies is actually a 19-gun (cannon) salute.
When I was stationed at Warner Robins Air Force Base, Ga., I was in charge of all military funerals, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard, from middle Georgia up to Knoxville, Tenn., and I always provided a 19-man funeral team made up of a color team, pall bearers, firing party with a non-commissioned officer (NCO) in charge of the firing party, and a NCO in charge of the detail.
At every funeral we performed, there was a 21-gun salute. The three volleys come from a warning given by the NCO in charge. So as not to scare the family, the NCO is to say, “Ladies and Gentlemen, please be prepared for the three volleys.”
If a firing party is not provided to a military funeral, the veteran and the families have been short-changed. It is the last honor a veteran is provided.
DAVID F. BALLARD
Legal system is a parody
In the past six months, I have been subjected to the parody of our Chattanooga legal system. Although the driver who hit my vehicle fled the scene, my family thought quickly and were fortunate enough to capture his license plate number and call 911. The driver was arrested on his second DUI charge as well as five others.
This case has been to court four times. The case was bound over to the grand jury, and I suspect it will be postponed another six months. While the gentleman’s lawyer has repeatedly tried to discourage me from being present during his court appearances, I feel it is imperative I be there. I need to tell my story.
I don’t understand how the judges can allow these type of cases to be postponed repeatedly or how the driver has maintained his license and continues to be allowed to drive as if nothing has happened. Granted, according to the law he is innocent until proven guilty, but at whose expense? I have been treated as if I am the one who committed the crime. I will be present in that courtroom every day to ensure I have done my part to save a life.
CONNIE GAZAWAY