Letter: Blue Devil should be changed because of French ties

In the past, there has been debate over whether the "Blue Devil" mascot is appropriate in light of the fact that some might construe it as being satanic. The truth is much worse: It's pro-French as well. As many Duke fans know, the Blue Devils were a World War I-era French army unit that became well known in this country when they toured the U.S. raising money for the war effort. The Blue Devil stands as a symbol of Franco-American unity, cooperation and friendship. I know passions about the current war in Iraq run deep on both sides, but regardless of how one may feel about France's position, unity, cooperation and friendship have no place in a society where "you're either with us or you're against us." I therefore feel that it is inappropriate for the Duke community to continue to use the Blue Devil mascot. I propose changing our mascot to the "Freedom Devils" instead. Go Freedom Devils!