In the Feb. 3 Tribune, the 'Adopt a Sniper' article on the fundraising effort by the College Republicans became a hot topic of conversation throughout the campus. I heard much praise for the actions taken by the Office of Student Development in shutting down the operation. I, however, do not share in this same affirmative opinion as my other classmates.

Much of the debate amongst students has been concerned with the ethics surrounding the 'Adopt a Sniper' fundraiser and the slogan on the bracelets, which is also a motto of the U.S. Marines: "1 Shot, 1 Kill, No Remorse, I Decide."

Many students seem particularly upset about the "No Remorse" phrase, especially since it is in the context of taking a human life. It needs to be realized that 'No Remorse' does not mean that one should instead rejoice at the loss of human life. Instead, this allows the sniper to remain emotionally neutral to the situation and complete their task to the best of their ability without having emotions compromise their mission and life.

The fact that the university saw fit to shutdown the fundraiser on the basis of it not fitting Marquette's mission is a pitiful excuse for the Office of Student Development's action.

In looking at the mission statement, there is, of course, the line that says the university is committed to "serving God." But, there is another part of the mission statement that I believe is applicable to this situation: "The search for truth."

Truth does not come in one form. Nor is there one set of ethics that is correct. I like to believe this is the reason why each student at Marquette is required to sit through at least two philosophy classes. We are all challenged to find an ethic and a truth that we believe fits our set of values. Everyone does not share the same value system. Consequently, peoples' ethics and belief in truth are going to differ as well. We need to realize this and accept one another as individuals, regardless of personal ethics.

One aspect that has been overlooked concerning this matter is the issue of free speech. The fundraising programs' statements and literature were not welcomed by the university. Why? Shouldn't Marquette respect the opinions of others, regardless of whether it's Mission Week or not?

It appears that Marquette students have had to forfeit their rights as Americans because they are on a Catholic campus that has strong liberal tendencies. If Marquette is committed to "the search of truth," it should recognize the rights that students are granted and allow different opinions and stances to be heard.

I'm sure this opinion will receive much criticism and that's OK. I am not professing that my opinion is the right opinion. It is just one of many. I pray, though, that all of the Marquette community, despite our individual ethics and opinions, can come together in the hope that peace can be obtained by whatever means necessary.

Justine Sinkus is a senior in College of Arts & Sciences.

This viewpoint appeared in The Marquette Tribune on Feb. 15 2005.