“Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety. – Benjamin Franklin 11 Nov. 1755.

Many live under totalitarian regimes where there is no recourse to address grievances especially those committed by the military. We all know the horrors committed and continue to be committed by the militaries of all nations (including our own). Luckily, we live in a democratic system that is ruled by a Constitution where all are created equal (meaning people and institutions).

We do have a means to air our concerns and not using those means creates a danger of losing them. Our Constitutionally guaranteed 4th choice is protest and many of us will continue to use this choice. We will use the principles on which this nation was founded not fear to motivate us.

Jack Pedigo

Lopez Island