The newspaper continues to report on the front page the ranting of the anti-Navy leadership that wants to move half the Navy off island rather than interview a proportionate number of the 5,000-plus people who signed the petition stating the Outlying Field Coupeville has been operating more than 70 years, is grandfathered and should keep OLF open.

Besides saying the Navy can’t be trusted, the anti-Navy leadership claim to know OLF isn’t necessary.

I believe the Navy is as, if not more, trustworthy than any government organization.

The Navy person’s oath is to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States and that what it stands for.

I am sure the three leaders, Monson, Spina or Pickard never served a day in service protecting the country when they were young.

Until one says they were a Navy safety officer, commanding officer, a member of an admiral’s staff or in a position of responsibility tasked with looking at causal relationships between training and flying accidents, I suggest they have no clue of which they speak regarding OLF.

The newspaper should balance reporting in proportion of more than 5,000 petition signers and the number wanting the Growlers to leave, thereby removing half or more of the 88 percent of economic activity the Navy represents.

I request all of the transit, school, hospital and private sector employees who will lose jobs if the Navy moves as a result of not being able train at OLF to comment on the Navy’s website at www.whidbeyeis.com/comment.aspx with your thoughts about the Navy’s continued presence.

–Mac McDowell is a resident of Oak Harbor and a former Island County Commissioner.