The Kitsap Peninsula has a proud military history. We read about it in almost every issue of the Port Orchard Independent. This is a fine thing, of course, but seems to be a reflection of America in general.

Today, America ranks far below Europe, Russia and Asia in education. As a result, many Americans cannot compete for good-paying jobs in today’s information age. Our infrastructure is overworked and our healthcare system is in a sorry state compared to other industrialized countries. With all due and proper respect to the many brave soldiers, sailors and airmen that fought in “the Big One” back in ‘44, perhaps it’s time to realize that war was 70-plus years ago, and it’s time to place a bit more emphasis on the state of our country today. The past is gone.

Bill Elliott

Port Orchard