In the ’60s the same problem with Air National Guard flyers existed in Western Maine. Now it is repeated.

Then, telephone calls to Maine Guard hooked me up with the Massachusetts Guard, who were not interested in my complaint. Several Guard officers made several visits over several weeks, stressing the patriotic need, but no solution was offered. Our concerns were ignored; our patriotism questioned.

Finally, I wrote my congressional voices, among them, of course, Sen. Snowe and Sen. Mitchell. Like magic, the flyovers ceased in less than two weeks. No more booms, no more surprising and ear-splitting traffic overhead, with a few “cowboys” playing with 300 feet above tree and chimney.

At a time when Maine is making valiant attempts to attract tourists and businesses, we are, once again, held hostage to the booms and screeches over golfers, fishermen, hikers, B & Bs, hotels, children’s playgrounds, cattle and wildlife, town and village events.

I suggest that Massachusetts, which is wealthier than we, send its planes to the western Massachusetts Berkshires — try Tanglewood — but leave Maine alone.

B’ gone, b’ gorry.

Burton Sill de Frees, Rumford