Our Navy is welcome here

I am responding to the letter entitled, “Navy should go away” appearing in the Feb. 9 Whidbey News-Times, and written by Janis Lentz. Well, Ms. Lentz, here is my sense of outrage you elicited from the “natives.”

First of all, I find it totally irresponsible and degrading for you to refer to our Navy, which is made up of men and women who have pledged to protect this fine county, as being unwelcome. Your hateful comments are also hurtful to the families of these brave souls who endure the hardship of being separated, sometimes permanently, from their loved ones.

And just who are you to say that the Navy is unwelcome in the first place? Did it ever occur to you those “flyboys” you’re condemning protect your very freedom to live in this peaceful place? Now to the subject of “pirates.” If you can direct me to one or two, I will suggest to them that you take a long walk on a short plank and I’ll gladly provide the plank. I have always said, “The few protect the many.” This was true yesterday, true today and will be true tomorrow.

And the few do so even in the face of condemnation by the unappreciative likes of you, a fact that has escaped you. It is a true honor to serve this country in the military and you should be ashamed of yourself for your reprehensible comments. And if you’re not, then I’m ashamed for you. Go, Navy!

Fred Stilwell

Oak Harbor