The West End News

Qualities Of Her Husband

Frederiksted, St. Croix, V. I. June 22. 1961

Since the resolution which was introduced during the recent Legislative Session to name the Christiansted High School for the late Frederick Dorsch has now become a public issue, and to quote the St. Croix News-Current in its issue of June 21, 1961, "caused an explosion that made the atomic blast at Hiroshima seem like a pop-gun." I consider it very appropriate for me to tell the public what is in my heart concerning this unfortunate and most unpleasant attack on a dead Patriot who cannot defend himself.

I write this, not as a member of any group or governmental department, but as public citizen, Delta M. Dorsch and wife of Frederick Delos Dorsch. This privilege cannot be denied me.

First, I should like to thank Senator Lucioda Millio for introducing the resolution. Senator Millio, I am sure, being fully cognizant and deeply appreciative of the untiring and unselfish contributions made by Frederick Dorsch for the past thirty years toward the betterment of the Virgin Islands, made this gesture in all good faith not realizing that remnants of the old "Hate Dorsch," "Spite Dorsch" campaign still exist in the islands.

My husband was held in contempt by some because he dared to be different. He dared to live and think, according to the dictates of his heart and conscience and not by the man-made laws of some of his contemporaries. For this, he was continuously persecuted, even to his grave.

After careful study of an article in St. Croix News-Current, a checking of the names of the Petitioners listening to two releases over Station WIVI and making a final analysis of the whole situation, I am now justified in stating that this is a clear case of personal grudge and enmity for the deceased and anything that bears his name. The thought of it is sickening to many. The sudden loyalty of this group and its desire to RETAIN THE HISTORY AND IDENTITY of the institution did not come naturally.

Is this petition truly the voice of the hundreds of C. H. S. graduates, or is it just the pent-up emotions of a few who would fain circulate other petitions of matters more displeasing to them, but seized on the naming of a school as their Whipping Boy?

The contributions made by Frederick Dorsch to the general improvement of these islands (not just Frederiksted), are too numerous for me to mention here. I shall therefore ask the consciences of those who knew the "man" Freddy Dorsch to speak out and enumerate those contributions for the benefit of those who ask: Who is this guy Dorsch? (St. Croix News-Current), and for those who have so conveniently forgotten.

Now that Governor Paiewonsky has seen fit to make the final decision and the name of Frederick D. Dorsch has been withdrawn I trust the "upset loyal minds" of the Petitioners will be set at ease and that there will be no more sleepless nights over a name.

Since there were no fatalities caused by the "atomic blast," I would suggest that our dear enemies turn their loyal attention to matters of a more serious nature. Just to mention a few: Setting up themselves as shining examples for their students, striving increasingly to teach their students to look beyond the trivialities of life (such as the naming of a school), the accreditation of dear Alma Mater and the development of sound moral, ethical and spiritual values in their students.

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CORRESPONDENCE

At this point I would like to request that any further thought by the Legislature, or civic groups and individuals to name anything whatsoever for my late husband be abandoned. Let them save the bouquets for those of the living who seek public acclaim and personal recognition.

My husband served these islands long, hard and well. He asked for nothing and received nothing. His contributions were greater and more outstanding than most island born individuals can boast. I asked that his name Rest In Peace.

This is a true indication that the good men do is often interred with their bones. However, the most comforting thought to me is that on that final day which we must all face we will not be judged by the number of buildings that are named in our honor but by how well we have served Humanity.

The sweet memories of my dear husband and things he stood for are my monuments. These I cherish very deeply. They are greater than any edifice of brick and stone.

DELTA M. JACKSON DORSCH