Support our soldiers

The Seattle Times interestingly juxtaposed an editorial condemning Army Staff Sgt. Robert Bales [“Throw away the key,” Opinion, June 9] and a syndicated column calling for greater empathy and treatment for those with mental illnesses [“Politicizing mental health,” Opinion, June 9].

Bales is guilty and needs to be held accountable for his crimes. I believe he should get life in prison for his horrible act against the families in Afghanistan. I also believe his numerous tours of duty, separation from his family for long periods of time and the culture of the military that included alcohol and drugs (steroids) has led to mental illness in this man.

This soldier needs help. Hopefully he will get therapy while incarcerated. I read of many instances at home or in the war zone of our military men and women acting violently against others or themselves, a result of asking too much of those serving in the military.

Amy Payne, Seattle