To the Editor:  Re ''Mr. Ridge Goes to Washington'' (editorial,
Oct. 8):  Here's an idea for Tom Ridge, the head of the new
Homeland Security Council in the White House: Why not enlist the
army of retirees -- the scientists, lawyers, engineers, computer
specialists and expert tradespeople? Get them off their couches
and golf courses and use them for surveillance, investigation
and watchfulness.  Many millions of retirees are out there,
ready and willing to play a useful role for homeland security.
Springfield, N.J., Oct. 8, 2001