February 19, 2025
Letter

Veterans’ conscience

I was present for the recent Superior Court trial of six Americans charged with criminal trespassing at Sen. Susan Collins’ office. I witnessed the same testimony as the jury. It was stunning. Each man confessed and portrayed the essence of their soul by explaining the reasons that compelled them to pursue a cause of action in the court. They all needed to speak from the mountaintop and testify without ambiguity of the events that led them to Collins’ office on that date of arrest.

Each stated their sincere need to boldly speak out against war. As men of conscience, each elaborated on their anguished drive of compelled performance, and their obligation to be socially responsible. The sincerity in their words made my heart quiver and sent shivering chills up my spine.

These men are all veterans or family of veterans and feel strongly for the lifelong plight of veterans and their families. They needed to tell this story and much more. The energy and intense engagement of the gallery in attendance filled the air with electricity. The jury was leaning forward, attentive and wide-eyed as they listened to the heartfelt testimony. I was so taken by their testimony that I stood up for each patriot as they stepped down from the stand and I shook my hands in quiet applause. These men possess the greatest attributes of honor and courage, and I am humbled as their witness. Peace to all on this sacred Veterans Memorial Day.

Patrick Quinn

Winterport


Have feedback? Want to know more? Send us ideas for follow-up stories.

comments for this post are closed

You may also like