Letters to the Editor of Stars and Stripes, Tuesday, May 10, 2010

In the April 29 Travel section (European edition), the article titled “Lots to sample in South Africa” was accompanied by a map of Africa that is closely accurate — except for one flaw: It fails to depict Eritrea.

Eritrea fought for and gained independence and international recognition in 1993.

I have a soldier from Eritrea whose family has been fighting Ethiopia for their independence since 1960. Eritrean men have died for their independence just as our fathers have fought for our independence in America.

You have carelessly depicted Africa by failing to recognize Eritrea as a separate state, and disrespected the men who have died for their freedom. Please correct your mistake and apologize for disrespecting the fallen heroes of Eritrea.

Staff Sgt. Alan Speck

Fort Lewis, Wash.

Source: Stars and Stripes