|
WASHINGTON, July 24, 1996 – President Clinton and defense leaders expressed outrage following reports of Nazi swastikas painted on barracks doors at Fort Bragg, N.C.
The swastika, a symbol of Adolf Hitler's Third Reich during World War II, is used today by extremist groups. Fort Bragg officials found the swastikas on eight room doors of a barracks occupied by members of the 7th Special Forces Group. Six of the eight targeted rooms belong to African-American soldiers. Speaking before law enforcement personnel here, Clinton said the White House is taking immediate action to punish the individuals responsible. "We have a zero tolerance for racism in our military, and make no mistake, we intend to apply it," said Clinton. "I know that I will have your support and the support of all Americans in maintaining this position." The president said no one in America should be subject to such vile acts. "These men and women of our armed forces have committed themselves to the highest level of dedication to our security," said Clinton. "They dedicate their lives to protecting our freedom. They embody our commitment to tolerance and liberty, and they do not deserve this kind of abuse." The vandalism is the second extremist incident at Fort Bragg in the past eight months. In December, police in Fayetteville, N.C., charged three Fort Bragg soldiers with murdering a black couple. Police found Nazi material and other extremist literature in a trailer the three soldiers rented near the post.
|
