Editor,

I came to Whidbey in 1971 from Illinois via Vietnam. Got out in 1973 and have been here ever since.

All three of my kids went to Coupeville schools. Manure smell and jet noise didn’t hurt them.

To those who complain of the “hidden costs” of the Navy, I say what other industry would you prefer on Whidbey?

A refinery?

Just what sort of industry would employ the same amount of people and put the same amount of capital into the local economy with less enviromental impact?

And the only thing I wanted out of the Navy was me.

I live about a mile or so from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island at present. You want noise?

Go live in Seattle.

Robin Bare

Oak Harbor