As a proponent of “bringing our service men and women” back home from Iraq, I would like to suggest we honor those who are sacrificing their lives and putting themselves in harm’s way daily.

I retired from the United States Navy in October 1990, as a Master Chief Petty Officer after serving my country for 30 years. With the loss of over 3,500 American lives and upwards of 26,000 wounded Americans who are maimed for life, we need to give the proper respect to those who have sacrificed their lives, remain on foreign soil in harm’s way, and provide the necessary medical care to the wounded who are returning.

I believe our United States flag is the most significant symbol that we as Americans stand by and look up to. I respectfully request our U.S. Senators, Clinton, Cantwell and Murray, initiate a bill to support that our flag be flown at half staff for the remainder of the war in Iraq until we bring our service men and women home.

Theodore J. Duris

Oak Harbor