This is written in response to letters by DeWolf Fulton (April 21), Richard Sousa and Pete Hewett (May 14) and Gordon Fields (May 14).

Although the three letters celebrate different aspects of Bristol, they all share a common denominator: a sincere love and appreciation of our beautiful and charming town.

The first, by DeWolf Fulton, laments the closing of the 100-year-old Goglia’s Market on Wood Street and his appreciation for the Italian specialties they offered, as well as the camaraderie and exchange of conversation there.

The second, by Richard Sousa and Pete Hewett, honors Bristolian war hero, 100-year-old Arthur Medeiros, who survived the Battle of the Bulge and was the recipient of a silver star, bronze star and three purple hearts. They felt his heroic battle exploits worthy of remembrance and celebration, and indeed they are.

The third, by Gordon Fields, “So many wonderful memories of growing up in Bristol,” is a nostalgic tribute to the town that offered him a safe and memorable childhood with opportunities to grow up and succeed. He mentions good teachers and good schools, the wholesome influence of St. Michael’s Church, his Boy Scout troop, particular police officers and experiences with town locals, all of which contributed to forming the responsible, patriotic, principled individual he is today.

What they all have in common is their belief that Bristol contributed to their lives in positive, memorable ways, whether with a scrumptious Italian sandwich, local heroes to admire and emulate, or an idyllic childhood in a place with character. The town in which they all grew up – namely Bristol  — had a positive and wholesome effect on their lives, nurturing their bodies and souls.

The letters emanate a sincere affection for this place – our place – where many things remain the same – unusual in this day and age. That is why it is always comforting to return to Bristol after time away – this sense of coming home – to what is comforting and familiar and unique – Hope Street and Linden Place, Colt Memorial School, the historic architecture, the spectacular harbor with bobbing boats, the bike path, Colt’s Drive, Rogers Free Library, Ferry Road … I could go on and on since I myself know them well and treasure each and every one.

We have been blessed to live and grow and age in a place like no other; where we honor our own heroes rather than relegate them to the past, forgetting their bravery and the debt to them; enjoy our local eateries, markets and shops; remember and treasure the institutions that molded us.

A line from the poem “Ulysses,” by Alfred Lord Tennyson, is akin to the sentiments expressed by these letter writers: “I am a part of all that I have met.” It contains the essence of what these individuals feel. Bristol is an essential component of their identity and will always remain so, no matter where they find themselves. I share their feelings.

Donna Deleo Bruno
Bristol