Biden's visit

Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. will be at Fort Drum today to welcome 10th Mountain Division soldiers back from Iraq. A news release from his office indicated that his wife, Jill Biden, will also attend.

The vice president will speak at a ceremony honoring the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, which has fulfilled three deployments to Afghanistan and four to Iraq. That is an awesome accomplishment.

It is a good thing for Mr. Biden to honor these brave soldiers who deserve their government's thanks as well as the heartfelt appreciation of all Americans.

One problem, however: the afternoon ceremony is closed to the public, although reporters will be allowed to cover the event.

Northern New York does not often have the chance to welcome an American president or vice president visiting the area. Certainly such rare appearances should include the general public.

Unless there was some overriding reason of great importance, provision should have been made for interested citizens to attend today's event.

The vice president should be commended for recognizing 10th Mountain troops who have contributed so much to the war efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan. In doing so, he speaks for all Americans.

Northern New Yorkers welcome Vice President and Mrs. Biden to the area, wish them a pleasant stay and hope they will return.

We also hope that any future appearances locally by the vice president or another top administration official will include the public.