This letter is in response to Elicia Grace’s letter on Nov. 19, “Nationalism takes a devastating turn.” I can’t express enough my disbelief that you would actually lower Americans to the same level as terrorists.

As a veteran of this nation, I am ashamed that our sense of patriotism has diminished to the point that people such as yourself actually believe this.

Since when did waving an angry fist in the face of unjustified terrorist attacks become “warped patriotism?”

And when did flying planes into our buildings become an unjust reason for hating a group of people?

It has become a virtual national past time in this country to sit back, point fingers and scream “hater”. The word hate itself has become the next F word. More and more, those who express their displeasure with the actions of certain groups have been marked with this “21st century scarlet letter.”

Now you want to twist the meaning of patriotism to fit your version of moral right and condemn all others that follow over 200 years of tradition as narrow-minded hatemongers?

Well you can brand me with a big fat “H” because I hate those who would kill us for pleasure, while hiding behind radical religious beliefs. I hate those who dance in the streets celebrating the killings. I hate those who would harbor the responsible parties.

And I hate anybody who does not 100 percent disagree with what happened Sept. 11.

I am as patriotic as they come. My hatred stems from that patriotism and I am not ashamed of it. My hatred is a testament to my love for our country and my fellow Americans. Basically I hate because I care.

The question is, do you care?

Jake Pierson

ISU Alumnus

Altoona