Veterans react to soldier selfie controversy
A Fort Carson soldier’s selfie is getting a lot of attention and backlash — especially from local veterans who call her actions disrespectful.
Pfc. Tariqka Sheffey posted a picture of herself sitting in a car on the social media website Instagram. The caption reads, “This is me laying back in my car hiding so I don’t have to salute the 1700 flag, KEEP ALL YOUR ‘THATS SO DISRESPECTFUL/HOWRUDE/ETC.’ COMMENTS TO YOURSELF cuz, right now, IDGAFFFF.”
Veterans at VFW Post 101 in Colorado Springs told KRDO NewsChannel 13 that they were surprised to see the photo and caption.
“I think she was disrespectful to the flag and also to the other soldiers that she serves with,” said Cathy Clemens, an Army veteran. “It’s an honor to be able to defend our country.”
Vincent Uribe, a Vietnam-era Army veteran, agreed that it was disrespectful but said he wouldn’t allow himself to be offended by it.
“I don’t agree with her, but I don’t think we should let it become that big of a deal,” Uribe said.
Outside the “Home of Heroes” Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial Plaza in Pueblo, veteran Chris Robles told KRDO NewsChannel 13 he believes Sheffey’s leadership should be held accountable.
“She initiated it. It’s her fault for doing that,” Robles said. “But the responsibility lies on leadership.”
On Wednesday Fort Carson officials addressed the photo, saying it will allow the soldier and command the opportunity to present all matters before taking further action.
