Letters: Remembering President George H.W. Bush; thoughts on the Amber Guyger murder charge

We've lost a true patriot

Re: "A point of light — 41st president served with 'humility and decency,'" Sunday news story.

Like almost everyone, I am truly saddened upon hearing the news that former President George H.W. Bush has died. This nation, as well as this world, has lost a truly honorable, passionate, caring, humble, honest and a patriotic individual, who put his country first and his family, above all. He is part of America's greatness. He embodied every quality that each of us aspire to have in our lives. We were proud seeing him occupy the Oval Office.

He realized that we all have different opinions, and he respected that. He had a moral compass, one that guided him throughout his lifetime.

In my opinion, he was the most fit person to occupy the Oval Office: He was a congressman, ambassador, Republican National Committee chairman, CIA director, vice president and president. He spent 70 years of his 94 years serving this country. George H.W. Bush is my hero.

Compare him to the current occupant of the Oval Office: a narcissist and a bully who seems to have no moral compass. I pray our nightmare will soon end and that decorum will prevail.

Bassim Nathan, Dallas

God bless Bush

God bless George H.W. Bush, our 41st president. He left a legacy that all Americans can appreciate and our youth should aspire to attain. Bush was an academic and athletic leader in high school and at Yale University. His school leadership qualities were a preview of his life accomplishments.

At 18 in 1942, Bush was the youngest U.S. Navy carrier pilot in World War II. On a combat mission in an air battle at Iwo Jima, his plane was downed by enemy flak. Rescued, he finished the war flying 58 missions. Bush was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Air Medals and a Unit Citation.

After the war, he moved his family to Texas where his achievements continued. Bush was successful in the Texas oil industry. He served Texas as a congressman and later held several important jobs in the U.S. government, including serving as vice president and then president.

Bush left large footprints of greatness in American history for others to follow. More importantly, he is a wonderful example for all young Americans and shows what they can accomplish in a nation of liberty and freedom of choice.

Bush lived a life of American values with his work ethic, patriotism, public service and love of family. Still his humility and friendliness was his finest legacy.

Johnny R. Higgins, Garland

A humble human being

In 1970 my parents co-hosted a function for George H. W. Bush who, at the time, was running for the Senate. I was not in uniform, but then-Congressman Bush was aware that I was serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. In spite of the tug of admirers and reporters, he pulled me to the side and shook my hand, expressing his appreciation for my national service and even complimented me on a recent promotion. He took the time to inquire about my school and career plans, and to wish me well.

Not only was Bush a brave war hero and a true patriot, but he was also a warm, kind, humble human being.

Brooks Snyder, Dallas/Lake Highlands

A benchmark for leadership

George H.W. Bush was one of the most underrated presidents in recent history. He should be remembered for his many victories that posterity has shown to be the right decisions.

Navigating the end of the Cold War, commanding the most efficient American war and prioritizing economic stability through taxes are his major triumphs. He had unparalleled courage and placed country over politics.

Today's politicians should consider his leadership as a benchmark.

Jason Nancarrow, Dallas

In praise of bipartisanship

George H.W. Bush will probably be the last president who could work on both sides of the aisle. Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and now Donald Trump have run into some very hostile partisanship. I was not a supporter, but I liked the man. I know he is very glad to reunite with his dear wife. Rest well, sir, and may God bless you!

Ronald Paris, Anna

Murder charge is appropriate

Re: "Guyger indicted on murder charge — Grand jury returns after week of hearing evidence in Jean slaying," Saturday news story.

I, too, take comfort from the murder charge. Taking another's life must be the most serious of actions. Even when done accidentally. It cannot be viewed as an "oh well ..."

The best that can be said is that the officer made a tragic mistake. That the killing was unintentional. Nonetheless, the former officer, particularly with all her training, had so many more options than shooting that would have avoided her mistake that even a mistake doesn't make the officer innocent. I realize the various related charge levels are intended to fit the punishment to the crime; nonetheless, we must never lose sight of the deadly seriousness in taking another's life.

I know, were I the victim, I would be very angry with a society finding my life of too little value to punish its taker. And it must be remembered that, if convicted, the former officer will probably serve a minimal sentence.

Ex-officer Guyger is no victim, and certainly not innocent, nor is what she did just a tragic mistake. It is an offense to her police training, her responsibility to others and all of us, and to what society must hold most dear: human life.

Brian Baldwin, Dallas/Oak Lawn

A deadly confrontation

Amber Guyger entered what she believed was her own apartment, was confronted by a man she didn't know and shot him. Botham Jean was watching television in his own apartment when someone entered the unlocked door. He naturally stood up and confronted the intruder and was shot to death. A tragic mistake. But Jean is dead and Guyger did shoot him. What to do about it?

Years ago, when I was in college, I got a last-minute offer of a ride home from Austin to Dallas. It was before the days of cellphones, so I had no chance to let my parents know I was coming. I arrived about 11 p.m., and they were in bed. I had a key, so let myself in and immediately heard my father say, "Who's there?" When he turned on the lights, he was standing there with a shotgun in his hands. He believed he was confronting an intruder. By the grace of God, he didn't shoot. If he had, what would have been the appropriate charge?

Mac Smith, Dallas