I object to the Distinguished Warfare Medal proposed to be awarded to drone pilots being ranked above the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. The criteria for its issuance reads very much like the Bronze Star without the combat V and I see no reason why that award should not cover this proposal quite adequately.

There is no "ground combat" necessarily involved in flying a drone and if there was, it might better fit an Air Medal or Bronze Star with V.

I do object to the ranking of this proposed award and feel the medal, itself, is a needless duplication of existing awards.

I have "voiced" my opinion to my congressional delegation, American Legion, VFW and Leatherneck. I don't have Panetta's email address or I would give him the benefit of my thinking, as well!

Harold Sydnam

Bellingham