One could argue that for most of Fame’s history all of Salisbury’s citizens haven’t felt safe. It was erected in 1908. A lot of history has happened since then. A lot of terror, blood, discrimination, racism. You get the sense from Mr Wineka’s article that Salisbury’s Fame statue brought together a big happy family to remember the sacrifices of soldiers that fought in the Confederacy. …

If the meaning of the statue has indeed changed to include all soldiers who have died in all wars, then it seems to me that the statue needs to change as well.

Why not create a new memorial statue that truly represents all who fought in wars past?

— Anthony Smith

“Deo Vindice,” or “God will avenge,” sends quite a message. In 1909, there were many living Confederate veterans and their widows in town for whom such a message provided comfort. Fast forward to over a century later, the inscription could take on a different context for a different demographic majority in town.

Perhaps elected leadership could proactively lead some sort of community dialogue, instead of just reacting to impromptu rallies and protests.

Passions are very strong on both sides of the issue presented here. Some efforts at unity — rather than division — could turn the tide in a positive way in Salisbury.

— Jeff Morris

On this Fourth of July weekend, I am concerned that citizens find a way to appreciate past history and to make new history by moving forward into the future together. For we are all Americans first, last, and always.

— Gary Hauze

I have no problem with the statue. I think it is beautiful and a big part of Salisbury history. Downtown would look awfully bare without it.

— Roberta Hawkins

A monument to history is different from a monument to racism or hatred. The war happened whether we like it or not; the best thing we can do is remember the hard lessons it taught everybody. And the statue symbolizes that. One of the most thoughtful and balanced reads on this subject I’ve ever seen. Thanks again.

— Rob Crawford

Thanks for the article. It makes me sad that one man’s actions has caused us to “spit” on the graves of soldiers.

— Talitha Lowman

I think the statue should be removed or re-dedicated. It is OK to view it as a memorial to all of history’s soldiers, but the words carved onto the statue do not mention any other wars and so the true meaning of the statue and the words is to sympathize with the Confederacy. The fact that Confederate flags have recently flown at that statue is no coincidence and makes me uncomfortable accepting the statue as it is.

— Frederick Caldwell II

I feel it’s an artifact of history. How much I may like or dislike it, that history has shaped me. … Erase the history and as a nation, we are doomed to start over and repeat it all.

I disagree with the thoughts of soldiers fighting and dying for words —freedom, patriotism, honor.  Soldiers in combat fight to stay alive and get home safe. The words come later when it’s all over.

— Anthony Garner

Fame is unique in the sense that it honors soldiers who perished and made sacrifices for their beliefs. It’s good that the statute is not that of some general on a horse or some politician giving a speech. We are fortunate to have such a unique tribute to the common soldier in our city.

— Reginald Brown