Richard Gunnar Juve: There should be no penalty for doing a public service

To The Daily Sun,

Daniel Penny, the New York City Marine who took the initiative to save a subway car full of commuters from danger, should be awarded a medal for bravery and public service. He showed honor, courage, and commitment by restraining a criminal in a New York subway car with a neck hold.

Instead, he has been arrested and will go on trial for murdering the 6-foot, 1-inch enemy who was screaming and threatening the commuters with death by conducting a futile banzai-like attack. Daniel, a trained Marine, stepped forward and employed a physical hold he was taught in the Marines to stop the enemy from endangering the public. Unfortunately, the assailant was taken to the floor and died. Daniel wanted unconditional surrender from the criminal. Civilian commuters, including many women and children in the subway car, were saved from harm by the rescuer. He protected the public from harm.

The assailant threatened death to the commuters. There was a Marine ready to obliterate an enemy from injuring defenseless civilians and give service to the country.

We must encourage the public to step forward and aid others when assessing the matter. A disturbing pattern of events contributes to a sense of unease among many who say, “I don't want to get involved.” The appropriate path forward is to ensure the people of New York and the nation become supporters of their fellow man. We want a display of justice. Authorities must recognize that public safety comes first, and race has nothing to do with this event. There should be no penalty for routinely stepping forward and doing a public service. This trial is not warranted in this situation. A public dilemma has been created. A more logical, sensible solution is justified in this situation.

Richard Gunnar Juve

Meredith