As a member of MDI Peace and Justice, I would like to respond to David Reed’s comments (BDN, Aug. 2-3) regarding our display and message in the Bar Harbor Independence Day parade.

Reed misunderstands our group’s intentions. The purpose of walking silently in mourning black while bearing the names of those we have lost in the Iraq war is to remember and honor the young Americans who have paid the ultimate price in this conflict of choice while respectfully reminding our people that wars bring extreme costs and that we must think very carefully before we place our soldiers in harm’s way. The members of MDI Peace and Justice are local residents from all walks of life who love the troops and this great nation as much as anyone, and the group is very pleased that the overwhelming majority of those who have observed this parade march over the last several years have been respectful and supportive.

Contrary to Reed’s assertions, those who participate in this and other such marches are as brave and patriotic as all citizens who not only talk about rights and freedom but also exercise these rights in public for all to see whether those who observe agree or disagree. This is what America and advanced citizenship is all about, and nothing could be more appropriate on Independence Day.

Susie Thompson

Bar Harbor