LETTER: Name the new high school after Battle

COLUMBIA — I would like to state I believe "Battles High School" is a great name for our next school. It is one thing to break the rules and another for the school board to have the good sense to realize there is an exception to every rule.

Unfortunately, Muriel Battle fits the rules. Her legacy is set in stone. I met this elegant lady while working for the juvenile division of our local circuit court years ago. She was an exceptional leader and educator. She now belongs to the ages. Eliot Battle likewise is a great local hero. He was and is a great warrior for peace and social harmony in the true spirit of Dr. King.

Like the majority of his race he suffered the heavy burden of American hypocricy, but he strove his whole life to set an example of how education and a positive attitude could conquer adversity and bring people together. I believe Eliot Battle has long ago proved his status as a local hero.

Naming the school after the Battles will hopefully sends a strong message to all youth of our community about the American values that make for successful lives and a strong harmonious community.