Tears welled in my eyes, for never have I heard any comments so despicable regarding the U.S. military. I think of my father's generation, their service in WWII and Korea,

by Nick Taylor

A friend I know from college posted something on her Facebook page the other day that was so stunningly eloquent in pain and outrage that it crystallized a moment.

Here is what Betty Jo Allen, a mother, grandmother and lifelong teacher in Lincolnton, North Carolina, now retired, wrote:

“I am at a loss for words over the latest revelation about Trump in The Atlantic, and do not doubt for one minute the truth of that article. As I heard about the article, heard the words of Trump about his opinion of people who serve in the military, people who are wounded, and those who gave their life in service to our country, my body shook, and tears welled in my eyes, for never have I heard any comments so despicable regarding the U.S. military. All I could think about were my dear friends who so bravely, courageously, and proudly served during the Vietnam War, some of whom were physically injured, all of whom carry with them to this day, the impact of that war. I think of my father’s generation, their service in WWII and Korea, where they also proudly, courageously, and bravely fought for our country.

From the communication I have had with a few of those men, I am well aware they also carry scars from their service. But, I do not doubt for one moment if they had the opportunity to serve again, they would, because of their love of our country and their willingness to sacrifice all, if necessary, to preserve our freedoms.

“And of course, my father Claude Evans Allen, my hero, is never far from my mind on almost any day. I was not blessed with a father in my home because he was killed in action in Korea, when I was only four.

Betty Joe Allen and her dad — Betty Jo Allen and her dad Claude Evans Allen. Photo Courtesy Betty Jo Allen

Now to hear that the President of the U.S. considers men like him to be losers and not smart because they gave their lives for a cause greater than themselves, is almost more than I can stand.

“As I shared above, when I heard of this report, the lifelong grief I have felt over the loss of one so dear to me, one I loved as only a little girl could love a father she adored, emotion welled up within me. How could anyone be so hardened to goodness, unselfishness, duty, love of country, to ever say such things against our military? It is unthinkable in my mind! And yet, once again this man has shown us who he is. This time, I do pray more people will actually see it and believe it.

“He has been telling us his whole life, and yet, some have refused to believe.”

Major Claude Evans Allen was 36 years old when he was killed in action in Korea. He received a Bronze Star for his service in World War II and another for Korea. He received the Silver Star for his service in Korea and was posthumously promoted to Lt. Colonel.