I took exception to the Sun Journal’s article April 27 titled F-35 flights “Extremely loud.” I am embarrassed, appalled and disappointed with Col. Tom Mauzaka’s comments concerning the noise intensity of the new F-35 fighter.

It seems strange that a USAF senior-level aviator with more than 4,000 flying hours would appear to have forgotten where he came from and who is providing him his monthly retirement check.

The good colonel should know, more than anyone, what it takes to keep pilots certified and current in realistic combat protocols, along with dissimilar fighter aircraft engagements.

Those flights must take place somewhere and Western Maine is the logical choice, as it meets all the criteria and flight profiles required to keep those air warriors up to speed in such a complex aircraft.

I spent 26 years on active duty in the USAF and retired in the Burlington, Vt., area. In addition, my son has recently joined the Vermont Air Guard unit in Burlington — the same unit hoping to get the new F-35s.

I can tell you, I want those new jets, the jobs, the improved base infrastructure, and, of course, the “sound of freedom” that goes along with those jets, because I haven’t forgotten where I came from and what is at stake.

Walt Arsenault, SMSgt, USAF (Ret.), Williston, Vt.