Editor,

We moved to this area in 2003. One of the reasons was Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve.

To live amongst the past and share this past with the thousands of visitors who come here every year is something that I treasure.

Visitors I talk to are in awe of the efforts of this entire area to protect and preserve this national treasure. Civic pride is evident in the many groups that exist in this area to help the reserve function.

The community raises thousands of dollars every year to protect and preserve the reserve, and enhance our heritage.

Residents love and cherish this national reserve.

The Navy’s attempt to destroy the very reason for this national treasure’s existence is difficult to understand. What would Navy folks think about the destruction of historic navy ships? Calling money “mitigation” is not an idea to be considered.

The Navy’s denial of allowing thousands of citizens to walk the many trails must not go forward.

Mitigation will only be the actual reduction of flights in this historic area. No new jets, no new flights is the only possible mitigation. Military jet noise stops the desire of visitors to visit this historic area.

Mitigation is fewer flights. Not money. Money won’t allow people to walk the trails of Ebey’s Landing.

Soundproofing historic buildings that no one can visit due to too much noise is not mitigation.

Please don’t allow the Navy to destroy this historic place with jet noise. The jets can be moved. Ebey’s Landing can’t. Preserve the reserve.

Michael Monson

Coupeville