Regarding Julie Muhlstein’s July 3 column, “War and peace play out weekly in downtown Everett:” While I appreciate that The Herald recognized the Evergreen Troop Support Group, I did not like that we were dismissed as “Bush supporters” and “war supporters.” We are, above all, troop supporters. Interview some of the veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan and the crews of the ships based here – they might help you understand what we represent. During their deployments they send relatives by so they can be reassured we are still there. Although Everett Peace Action claims to support troops, the troops know better. They claim to be for peace, but peace at what price?
What does Everett Peace Action do to help the troops or veterans and their families? Do they collect books, toiletries, treats or messages of support to send them? Members of Evergreen Troop Support Group do!
Muhlstein went to great lengths to point out the military service of members of the peace group. Most of the men on our corner are veterans and the women are wives, widows, mothers, grandmothers or children of veterans. Those of us with connections to the Vietnam War are determined that the veterans of this war will be welcomed home and treated with respect. I can attest to the harassment suffered by my children and me during my husband’s service. His only welcome was abuse by “peace activists.” I proudly stand on the Northeast corner of Colby and Hewitt to say: “It will not happen again!”
We appreciate the support by those who pass by, but I would ask you to take a few minutes to stand with us. If “noise” is what they want, then let us generate enough noise to make our voices heard and be the silent majority no longer.
AUDREY E. McKEE
Lynnwood
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