"The Natural Truth" radio personality Michael Graham (96.9FM Boston Talks) issued an article on the eve of Veterans Day, November 10, revealing a message by Suffolk Law School's own Michael Avery. Reacting to an email in aims of collecting supplies for American troops, Professor Avery reportedly took the time to put together a response:

"I think it is shameful that it is perceived as legitimate to solicit in an academic institution for support for men and women who have gone overseas to kill other human beings…That sympathy is not particularly rational in today's world, however."  (Read the full article here.)

Veterans Day is typically an annual pride-filled holiday honoring all men and women who have served in the Armed Forces and sacrificed their lives for the freedom and protection of the American people. 

Consequently, the general feeling of Suffolk University students and alumni on Professor Avery's position was not a positive one.

"I think it is absolutely disgusting that a professor at our great university would even share these sentiments. Does he have a right to say it? Of course," stated Joe Paru, former President of the Suffolk University College Republicans, who arrange the undergraduate care-package drive every fall semester.

"However, to say that ‘hanging a flag in the law school lobby' or ‘sending our troop's supplies' is politically motivated is just baffling.  More often than not, war is legitimate. War ended slavery, Nazism, and now we are defending ourselves from extremists who want to do nothing but kill Americans."

Newly created group Suffolk Veterans Organization and its members also expressed their resentment and disappointment on their Facebook page on the remarks by Professor Avery. 

Brooks Foley, Suffolk University student and two-time Veteran, also reflected on the issue through  a comment on the page:

"It was nice to wake up on Veterans Day and see your ignorant comments calling all Vets killers. I am a two-time Veteran attending Suffolk University and your remarks are a slap in the face to anyone who as ever served. Next time you feel like shuffling everyone under one title, "killers," think about the words that are coming out of your mouth.  It's heart-warming for me to know that you and your family are safe while my friends and brother, currently in Afghanistan, are protecting your freedom. So on Veterans Day why don't you thank a soldier instead of hiding behind your desk making obscure, radical, and untrue statements about those who have served."

There have been questions and criticisms of Professor Avery's statements and speculation of a follow-up comment or apology addressing the student's concerns. Avery did not respond to emails from the The Voice requesting a comment. Nevertheless, this is what makes America truly special: that freedom of speech without suppression allows for any and every opinion to be recognized.