At the county commission forum Tuesday, we were reminded that it was estimated that 18 percent of eligible voters would vote. That means that winners could be decided by a little more than 9 percent of those voters eligible to make that decision. It brought back memories of the last election when issues were decided by the same percentages. How sad!

When I ask for my veteran’s discount at Lowe’s, I am always thanked for my service. So badly, I want to ask, “Did you vote in the last election?” That’s one of the reasons we served: to protect our rights to a free democracy and the right to vote in that democracy. To thank a veteran for his service then not vote seems rather empty.

So, if you would be inclined to thank a veteran for his service, then study the issues and vote. If you don’t vote, don’t bother to thank me.

— Jack Connery

Salisbury