We support the troops but not the war.” As a former career military man, it is difficult for me to understand just what the anti-war demonstrators actually mean by this statement.

During the Vietnam War, we clearly knew just what millions of Americans thought of our “participation” in an unfriendly, unpopular war; namely zero support, and we received few thank yous for doing what we were asked to do.

In many cases, the welcome-home ceremonies consisted of demonstrators throwing rotten eggs or spitting at us, and it took many years for our country to finally make amends to those who proudly served their country.

Today the anti-war demonstrators have learned from the past (Vietnam ’60s era) that it was not right or correct to vent their anger at the troops so they have revised their anti-war sentiments to include the phrase, “We support the troops.”

The question now, however, is just what are these people with loud voices actually doing to support the troops? If they do support the troops then why are they absent at greeting them and telling them this as they return home via Bangor International Airport or taking a few moments to send a care package, note and-or letters to a military person in Iraq or Afghanistan?

If anyone preaches that they support the troops, then step up to the plate and show it. To those who are filled with so much anger toward our president, do not let this anger force you to forget those brave young men and women who volunteered to protect our freedoms.

The anti-war protesters clearly have a right to conduct demonstrations against the war, why we went there, and place blame on anyone associated with the current administration, but please do not include your statements of “supporting our troops” as an appeasement to achieving political objectives.

The right to protest is granted to all Americans and many died to give up that right. The Veterans for Peace activists also have that right even if some of them received an administrative discharge to expedite their departure from the military for the convenience of the government.

However, to plant white flags in the ground to commemorate a fallen American fighting soldier accomplishes only disdain. I have been with our fighting men and women in Iraq, and the majority of these troops despise this form of activism.

If one doubts this, then go to the airport and ask them for their opinion. The answer will be one they wish not to hear. But then again, what would one expect to hear since more than 90 percent of our troops have re-enlisted to go back to Iraq.

It would appear that the intelligence of our troops far exceeds those who plant the symbols of white death flags.

Thomas W. Kelly III is a retired Navy captain who lives in Blue Hill.