This letter is in response to all the negative reporting about the war. My husband is a sergeant major for the Maine National Guard, and he has been recently deployed to Afghanistan. One evening, I was talking to my husband and I asked him, “Why would anyone sign up for this, to be in the military?” He said, “To preserve our way of life.” I ask all of you to think about that comment the next time you go out to dinner or share quiet moments with loved ones.

I hear firsthand how we have positively affected the lives of so many people in Afghanistan and Iraq. I guess it’s not sensational enough to make headline news. But, I’m sure if given the chance, these people would gladly share how the soldiers have assisted in the rebuilding of their country and have provided protection during a very difficult time.

The next time you see a soldier, thank him or her for all that has been done. Display the American flag to show that you’re proud to be an American and that you support our troops for doing an excellent job.

Linda Hannibal, Fayette