After 39 years with the Coast Guard, I have a unique perspective, 17 years as a civilian employee and 22 years on active duty.

Wonderful, positive changes have taken place in our service with regard to diversity and the Coast Guard Academy is at the forefront. Emails and clubs and speakers regarding this topic are woven in the fabric of this campus. The admiral and everyone in administration and management is very clear about the expectations. People unwilling or unable to adhere to the high standards of inclusion are escorted out. Our academy is a beautiful reflection of the pride we all feel working and living here.

So when I read that “anonymous” fourth-class cadets reported problems in a recent Day news story − "CGA works to address concerns of minority treatment, retention," Sept. 3 − it did not make sense. Fourth-class cadets work hard just to find their way around the hallways, so a suggestion that they would, on their own, find their way to The Day to make anonymous reports just doesn’t ring true. I smell a rat and I think he serves as a state representative.

It is disheartening to think that Rep. Chris Soto, who benefited from an education at the academy, wouldn’t position himself to be part of a solution to a reported problem, such as calling the admiral, but instead called a press conference.

I challenge any taxpayer who thinks they are not getting their money’s worth at the academy to come visit. We are proud to show off our people, our grounds, our attitudes, and our diversity. 

Michael A. Robinson lives in Griswold.