The Pentagon has taken advantage of men and women who not only just serve for the country, but especially those that are in the Reserves. Erik Botta is one such soldier that has been regarded over and over again as expendable, he is now fighting a fifth deployment. His job, family and most importantly his life is being put at stake again and he has had enough. He is suing the Army for a honorable discharge since they refuse to give him one, even though he is currently in college and working for a defense contractor with a young wife.
From The Miami Herald:
Deployment now would mean that he could no longer afford his house -- his wife would probably have to move in with her parents. Plans to start a family would be on hold. He would probably have to repeat some engineering courses after his return, and he might even lose the job he just landed about a month ago. Previously, he worked at Pratt & Whitney in the Joint Strike Fighter and Raptor engine programs.
''This is no peace protester,'' Waple said. ``I wouldn't have touched this case with a 10-foot pole if it was. He's put the boots on and been in combat.''
Although Botta knew there was a risk that he would be called to duty again, he assumed that it was very slight, given his four combat deployments, pursuit of an engineering degree and employment with military contractors, he said.
''The world pretty much stopped when I got the notice,'' said Botta, weighing each word. ``I've sacrificed a lot for the military. I didn't want to end with litigation, but I feel I've done my service to my country. I've done what I signed up for in more ways than one.''
It is good to see that the fighting spirit is still Erik. The will to fight against an unjust military is even more honorable. It is uncalled for to have our troops being taken advantage of in this manner as well as for their families. Mr. Botta has risked his life enough for the war, it is time to let him go so that he can build a life back home.
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