Raymond Hegwood: “No ransom” policy is still best for U.S.
Re “U.S. plots hostage policies” (Page A5, April 7): I call BS.
When I enlisted in the Army in 1978, an all-volunteer Army, I understood there was a “no hostage policy” clause in my contract.
Every day for 20 years that I went to work in the jails in this county, I understood, and signed a form indicating I understood, that there was a “no hostage policy” in place as a requirement of employment.
Neither the Army nor the county Sheriff’s Department would bargain for my release were I to be taken hostage. I don’t blame them.
Why should a private contractor, deserting soldier, missionary or any other individual who willingly places themselves in jeopardy by going into known dangerous regions expect to by rescued at taxpayers expense? I’d rather use that money for social issues here at home.
If we start paying for every hostage being held today we would be setting a dangerous precedent and creating a very profitable business for terrorists or kidnappers.
I empathize with the families of anyone who is being held hostage anywhere in the world, but no one forced them to go – including soldiers.
Ray Hegwood, Ceres
This story was originally published April 8, 2015 at 12:06 PM with the headline "Raymond Hegwood: “No ransom” policy is still best for U.S.."