Editor,

Today, I stopped by the side of the road at Outlying Field Coupeville to watch the Growler pilots doing touch-and-go landing practices.

Now that is a very exciting experience, but I would like to let those pilots know how proud I am of them. They are so brave and patriotic, and for just a little while today they brought joy into my life in a time when life has been so devoid of joy due to the pandemic.

There are so many people here on the island who complain about jet noise, but I like it and to me it truly is the sound of freedom and so I thank them for all they do to keep the rest of us safe.

Jane Preston

Langley