With the large number of visible supporters of our military families, one has to wonder where so many of them were when it came to support them by voting and providing for their children with the very best education possible.

Since there were some 46 percent of the Oak Harbor voters who were against providing the very best in physical facilities and learning environments for the military families that depend on the community for support and their own community’s children, one has to wonder just what kind of sincerity accompanies the demonstrations on the street corners.

If Oak Harbor really supports the Navy military families, what kind of aggressive program does the city and the chamber of commerce have to provide economical support for the members of the Navy families who have been left behind?

If I visit members of the business community will I find programs of support for those providing the security so we can enjoy our freedoms; for those families who are still reliant on food stamps and the charity of the food banks, churches, and social service agencies?

Where are there offers for discounts or special pricing for the military families? Which of our automobile dealers, for example, is going to be the first to offer a discount to the military family on auto maintenance and service? Which of the hotels or motels are going to offer special discount rates for parents who are visiting wives or husbands who have been left behind to take care of families?

Which of the grocery chain stores is going to offer a special discount for food that costs more than many military families can afford? Where will the family turn to when a vital appliance needs service, repair or replacement?

Are there those who will offer support for the families who need an opportunity to enjoy an evening away from the thoughts and memories of loved ones who are not there to share time and activities?

Are we really willing to support our military families and their children or are we satisfied only to wave a sign and smugly walk off feeling that we have done our duty?

P.S.: For those who might feel that this is important I have contributed 26 years in the military in support of our state and the country and 30 years as a teacher/administrator in helping to provide learning environments for our young.

Sid Iverson

Coupeville