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There is the belief, apparent in commemorative issues like TIME's Dday anniversary special, that decisive events, such as the landing on Normandy beaches, were almost entirely American. Only brief mention is made of other countries' contributions. But look at the facts. Of the first waves of invading army divisions landing on five beaches in Normandy, two were American, two were British and one was Canadian. Because all they hear is the U.S. version of events, most Americans would be surprised to realize that in the early hours of D-day, the invasion was only 40% American. Could Hitler have been defeated without the U.S.? Not likely. Could America alone have defeated Hitler? Also not likely, but it is very possible the U.S. would not even have tried. Americans must learn to curb their tendency to self-congratulation and silly boasting, about current and historic events. COLIN HIGNETT London, Ont.
How can the heroic efforts against a monster like Hitler, who was slowly swallowing up Europe, possibly be compared with the war in Iraq, one being waged for America's political interests? TERESA FONTAINE Antibes, France
A Belgian brigade was part of the invading forces on D-day. Those soldiers fought as well as any others and should not be overlooked as participants in the liberation of Europe. GAETAN BORGONIE Ghent, Belgium
The Shame of Abu Ghraib
Your report on the psychological and physical mistreatment of prisoners at Abu Ghraib by U.S. soldiers came as a great shock and exploded the myth that we live in a civilized world [May 17]. If the U.S. attacked Iraq to rescue its people from the cruelty of their dictator, then what kind of example has been set by those abusive American soldiers? Today the whole world is disgusted by their acts. There is a lot of talk about human rights nowadays. Does such a thing exist? Abu Ghraib will haunt the world for years to come. SANGHITA C. BHATTACHARJEE Calcutta
After Abu Ghraib and the insurgents' attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of Iraqi civilians, many people around the globe are asking when Washington will realize that invading Iraq has not solved that country's problems. Public sentiment has turned against the U.S. because of Iraq. America represents many beliefs that the world values in the 21st century, but the insensitive and arrogant behavior of the Bush Administration is tarnishing the image of the U.S. Americans should expect better from their government. ATILLA A. IFTIKHAR Stavanger, Norway
The U.S. should certainly not rely on the same methods that terrorists do. Because of events at Abu Ghraib, the U.S. will need even stronger determination in order to win the hearts and minds of Iraqi people. ALEXANDER GRASBECK Southampton, England
Curtailing Communion