Editor,

Week after week, I’ve read the stupid comments from many of our uninformed residents of Whidbey Island and surrounding areas.

When I came to Whidbey Island in 1973, there was a fantastic sign on State Highway 20 and Ault Field Road. It stated, “Please pardon our noise! It’s the sound of freedom.”

It still is.

Many residents of Whidbey Island do not realize how lucky they are to live in a place like this. If you have a complaint, take it up with your Realtor. When you declared residency here, you had to sign a document warning of aircraft noise. It was a requirement.

If you did not get that document, take it up with them.

Capt. Nortier, base commanding officer, is to be commended for his recent comments in the Whidbey News-Times, and also the many island residents who stuck up for the Navy’s presence and operations.

This is a military town and always will be. Even when our Navy personnel are home from the many tours overseas, they must continue their constant training to be the Navy that they are.

Maybe you would rather have ISIS knocking at your door. Enjoy the freedom.

Gary D. Hansen

Retired Navy

Oak Harbor