Letter to the Editor

There have been a number of letters discussing why the military should get paid more. Almost all cite the risk. [See the letters archive under Milt Zall's "Pay parity" column.]

True, military service is dangerous, but is not the only dangerous profession in the federal government. Federal firefighters and law enforcement officers face risk daily, not just when Congress declares war.

The Forest Service has tree fellers. Check the injury and fatality rates: Tree-felling is more hazardous than infantry combat. To set pay rates on the basis of perceived danger alone and ignoring other factors is ludicrous.

Name withheld upon request