Letters in March 16-17 Barrington Times were painful to read. Veterans who have honorably served voicing anger toward Town Council members who are honorably serving. Both groups deserve our gratitude and respect.

The president of the veteran’s council has collaborated with a group in Town that call themselves the Legal Insurrectionists. A quick look at their website shows this group to have a clearly defined political agenda. Insurrection is revolt against government. Veterans serve to defend government. I am not sure if the veterans are aware of this group and their ideas, or if so, see any paradox here.

It appears that Barrington now has both a veteran’s council and a veteran’s coalition and an attempt to understand the difference is confusing. Both are named on the same website, although declared as separate entities on facebook. The BUVCoalition facebook page has little to do with veterans, but has a lot to do with conflict.

At least two of the letter-writers expressed the view that this vote was related to the flag controversy. I do not know, and was not present at the meeting. I would like to recommend a book, "High Conflict," by Amanda Ripley. This book helps to explain the understory of conflict, how wearing a hat to one side can result in death. It is a very timely read.

As a resident who has enjoyed and participated in the annual Memorial Day Parade, I hope we will together honor those who have died for our country and those seek unity and peace in living for it.

Thank you, veterans, for all you have given. Thank you, town council members, for all you are giving.

Laura Young
Barrington