Hey everyone.  I was a fairly regular participant in the discussion boards until a little over a year ago.  I retired from the Navy and moved to the UK, starting a new job and new career but still working for Uncle Sam.  I hope to catch up on things and share in some good discussion and debate with you all. 

Cheers,
Gary

Greetings all.  I've been an observer of this site for several months now and finally decided to join.

I admit that I have been conflicted over the concept of Capital Punishment.  My main concern has always been the fear of an innocent person being executed.  You can't take back the sentence, once it's been carried out.

I believe, however our legal system is fair and just and that the vast majority of those on death row are guilty.  I just want to be sure that the person paying the ultimate penalty actually did the crime, otherwise we still have a killer out there.

When I read about the vile crimes committed by the criminals profiled here, I remember why so many states have the death penalty.   You won't see me shedding tears for the executed.  The tears must be reserved for the victims and their families.

That being said, you probably won't see me crowing over the execution of these killers.  Capital Punishment is a serious issue, and requires a strict adherance to rules and regulations.  While I may wish to see the Ted Bundys of the world slowly roasted alive on a skewer, I realize that if we're not careful we could become just like those whom we revile.

I've been in the Navy for more than 26 years now, so I'm not easily offended.  I understand why people cheer when villains are removed from the planet once and for all. 

I should also add that my views on the subject have hardened over the years.  The daughter of a close friend of mine was murdered about three years ago in Bowie, MD.  Staci Seaton was a beautiful 17-year old girl with her whole future ahead of her.  She was found one afternoon with a gunshot wound to her head.  I was stationed in Italy at the time, and when I finally got to speak with her dad, I was amazed at how composed he could be.  We're not supposed to bury our children, they're supposed to bury us.  And yet, Mike stood firm in his faith and maintained his composure for the sake of his family.  So far, the crime remains unsolved.  I hope one day the killer is brought to justice.

I look forward to participating in the discussions, and hope for frank and honest answers to any questions I may have.

Best wishes to all.  let Justice be served.