To the Editor:

The release of two American journalists from North Korea, thanks to former President Bill Clinton's rescue mission, brought relief and joy to all who enjoy freedom.

For decades, POW/MIA family members and POW activists have requested and hoped for this high-level intervention on behalf of our POWs and those missing in action.

Can you imagine if a former president were to embark on a global mission to promote an international no-fault policy to secure the release of all POWs from all wars?

Whenever assistance is needed throughout the world as a result of natural disasters, peacekeepers are requested, or someone is needed to fight for the freedom of others, the question becomes whom shall I send.

The U.S. military, trained individuals, rapid response teams are sent without hesitation.

During a 1987 interview, while the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, Benjamin Netanyahu stated the supply of civilian hostages is infinite.

However, the supply of trained military personnel is a finite number. Therefore, nations should always negotiate for prisoners of war.

Aren't our captured or missing military personnel worthy of such high-level intervention, too?

Kathy Shemeley

President

POW/MIA/CT Forget Me-Nots

New Milford