Gratitude for veterans’ service must be put into action | Letter

A Brunswick resident is calling for a more substantive approach to supporting Maine's veterans, arguing that well-intentioned but empty phrases like "thank you for your service" are insufficient.

In a letter to the editor, David Kilgour writes that the state's veterans often return from service to face profound challenges, including homelessness and addiction. He describes these struggles as "devils we cannot imagine" and asserts that what these individuals truly need is not gratitude, but tangible help, understanding, and steadfast support.

Kilgour's message emphasizes a vision of community responsibility he calls "the Maine way." He argues that if veterans fall, the community must help them up. For those who can overcome their struggles, he says they should be welcomed back as contributing members of society. He concludes that if these veterans can then speak on behalf of others, "so much the better," framing their recovery and reintegration as a collective success for the entire community.