Regarding “Fire marshal gave two reasons for not seeing foam” (news, Jan. 6): Fire Marshal Denis P. Larocque told investigators that he did not do an in-depth inspection of the entire Station club because he was concentrating on the illegal door that had been reinstalled. Therefore, he neglected to see the flammable foam on the walls and ceiling that led to the deaths of 100 people.

What Mr. Larocque fails to realize is that he was the fire marshal, and it was his job to inspect the whole nightclub, not just parts of it! Like other people in positions of responsibility, he should have been doing his job to the fullest. I wonder if he only took half a paycheck that week for doing half a job. I think not.

Imagine if an airline pilot, responsible for the safety of his passengers, checks his fuel but neglects to check his radio, landing gear and other instruments necessary for a safe flight. Or how about a doctor who is performing an operation and neglects to check his patient’s blood pressure, temperature or allergies to medications? Get the picture?

It’s sad how people fail to own up to their responsibility and make excuses instead. Shirking responsibility and not living up to the trust that people put in you is everywhere. It is visible on a national, state and local level, in the police force, in the school departments — everywhere.

No wonder our young people look up to media pop stars as heroes. Whom can they trust?

NATALIE URBAN

Bristol