I was once a combat infantry sergeant. I would probably be considered a fossil. I am a veteran of World War II, who picked up a Purple Heart and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

During that time, I developed a better sense of perception than most – you know that uneasy feeling, often called a “hunch.” That perception has bothered me of late.

According to pre-election rhetoric, we were no longer in dire straits. Why do I still feel that tingle between my shoulder blades?

Maine has 3,000 miles of coastline. During the ill-considered prohibition of liquor, the thousands of little coves and inlets did duty as ports of call for bootleggers.

Doesn’t anyone believe that it would be quite possible for a group of terrorists to strike the Bath Iron Works or the Brunswick Naval Air Station?

My contention is that we need the Brunswick Naval Air Station and Portsmouth and Kittery as well. Rather than closing these down, we should be bolstering them.

The Coast Guard is a great outfit, but they’re way understaffed and stretched thin.

If you think I’m an alarmist, remember the pictures taken of the terrorists at the Portland Jetport. How did they get around so easily?

Why does this country always wait until it is kicked below the belt to take protective measures?

Let’s hope the new intelligence organization is not another bureaucratic bungler.

Archie R. Travers Sr., Auburn