CRONKITE ON THE WAR ON DRUGS

I was saddened to hear of U.S. newscaster Walter Cronkite's death at
the age of 92, as reported July 18. He was known for his coverage of
the Vietnam War. He understood the futility of that conflict and his
voice rang out loud and clear against it. In response, President
Lyndon Johnson was reported to have said, "If I've lost Cronkite, I've
lost Middle America."

However, this was not the only war that Cronkite realized was
unwinnable. On March 1, 2006, he wrote: "And I cannot help but wonder
how many more lives, and how much more money, will be wasted before
another Robert McNamara admits what is plain for all to see: The war
on drugs is a failure."

Walter Cronkite was a supporter of Law Enforcement Against
Prohibition. LEAP is an international organization of current and
former law enforcement officers who seek to minimize death, disease,
crime and addiction by gradually legalizing and regulating drugs.

As a member of LEAP, I am proud to share this small connection with a
great man. His wisdom, integrity and judgment will be missed.

David Bratzer

Victoria