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The Passing of America's 38th President

Readers saddened by the death of Gerald Ford recalled the events that shaped his legacy, most notably his historic ascension to the presidency. "Ford may be considered an 'accidental president,' but he was precisely what our country needed at a time of turmoil," one said. "He brought decency back to the White House, and that was no accident." Others continue to be less generous. One described Ford's pardoning of Richard Nixon as "fumbling the most important decision of his presidency." Readers also found parallels in concurrent news events. On a dire note, one observed that Ford's death coincided with the death of the United States' 3,000th service member in Iraq. "Some spent many days mourning the one; some barely acknowledged the many," she wrote. Another hoped that with Saddam Hussein's execution, Iraqis might now be fortunate to "find a leader like Ford to end their long national nightmare."

Remembering President Ford

Among the many blessings Gerald Ford enjoyed in life is that he lived long enough to realize that the nation had come to truly understand and respect his courageous efforts as our 38th president ("More Than Met the Eye," Jan. 8). Ford was a statesman who accepted his nation's call to serve during a most difficult time. While the timing of his service may have been "accidental," there was no fluke to the sincerity of his character. During the past 30 years there have been many good candidates deserving my vote, but my proudest ballot was cast in 1976 for President Gerald Ford. For the service he gave this nation, for the honor he restored to the presidency and for his enduring respect for the Constitution, I will always be grateful.

James S. Flanagan

Norwich, N.Y.