Acknowledging Black Confederates.

I'm writing as a proud descendant of Confederate ancestors to thank you for Jodie Gilmore's article "'Acknowledging Black Confederates" (September 22 issue). It's high time these men and women receive their due honor.

The acts of honor, courage and loyalty by these brave men and women are too numerous to list. To belittle their devotion and service is unacceptable and disrespectful. Their sacrifices shouldn't be ignored or forgotten.

My pride as an American doesn't dim my feelings about my Confederate heritage. I will honor the memory of those white, black and Native Americans who fought, bled and died under the Confederate Battle Flag. They answered a call to fight for what they believed was right. They fought to defend their homes, lives and families from an aggressor. Thank you for bringing their forgotten service to light.

JASON BAKER

Valley, Alabama

Jodie Gilmore's article "Acknowledging Black Confederates" was interesting and in formative, but incomplete concerning President Lincoln's "united we stand--divided we fall" motive for the Civil War.

During the Civil War, the Monroe Doctrine was trampled on as France invaded Mexico. And shortly afterward, the Mexicans (with our encouragement) kicked out the French invaders. The point is this: A weakened U.S. provokes belligerent world powers to malicious mischief on our doorsteps. This is true today as it was historically.

I feel the above vindicates President Lincoln's "united we stand--divided we fall" motive for the Civil War.

CARL R. SIGMUND

South San Francisco, California