Bill, I agree with you however, what seems a bit odd to me, is that when a victim of vitriolic post retaliates, he is tarred with the same brush as the originator of the attack...
Its human nature to protect oneself from such attacks, warranted or otherwise, and unfortunately, a response in kind usually exacerbates the situation. I would suggest that the originator(s) of such postings receive a reprimand or whatever the moderators deem appropriate for the offence. It is true that the responder is guilty as well, but not to the same degree, if the response is meant to repel the initial barb. I admit that I have responded to postings deliberately meant to impugn, while keeping the verbiage rated PG so to speak. I enjoy participating on the FordBarn forum, and have for many years, hopefully my participation will be allowed to continue.