I read a letter in the Nov. 11 Herald that in one paragraph demonstrated the lack of tolerance and hypocrisy found in many people today who still label themselves as "progressive" and "modern." This letter writer did not feel it was appropriate for the tea party folks to express themselves in a Veterans Day parade.

"Our vets fight for our freedoms to express ourselves, to have our own political and religious views, but to allow such a slanted view into a celebration of our veterans is absolutely absurd," the letter stated.

Am I the only one who thinks this statement is absurd? We have our freedom of expression but don't do it in a parade where I might see it? A parade that had schools, private focus clubs, military groups, civic groups, religious groups, commercial exhibits and many other entrants. If the West Richland Chamber of Commerce were to start censoring the entrants in their parade, do you think it would last long?

Obviously the Herald doesn't censor the views expressed in the opinion page. You are welcome (and free) to show your displeasure by booing, but don't try to limit the expressions of freedom that those Veterans fought for or it would be in vain.

Dale Thornton, Benton City