Lifelong Lessons From Devil Pup Camp

The look on the face of Joshua Crain (“Devil of a Summer Camp,” July 31) told the whole story. How could that burly Marine frighten a youngster so much trying to get him to jump from a 35-foot tower? Thank goodness he had the courage to say no. I guarantee you, Josh will carry the memory of fright and humiliation for years to come. The Times didn’t help the situation by running a close-up picture of his terrified face and the statement “he didn’t jump.”

I have two grandchildren, 4 and 6 years old, who ride the big waves at Newport Beach. I assure you they didn’t learn to be so daring by being bullied and humiliated and frightened into doing it.

I love the heading “Camp Teaches Youths Self-Esteem.” Not!

BARBARA PORTER, Newport Beach