A look at The Economist magazine’s “Pocket World in Figures” (2016, page 102) tells us that the United States spent $596.9 billion [for defense] (in 2014: latest figures). This is more that the next nine highest nations, combined. What’s more, the U.S. exported arms in the amount of $10,194 million, which is more than the next three highest nations, combined.

I always believed the grade-school claim that the U.S. was a peaceful nation. But the above figures suggest that maybe this is not so. I do believe that we should spend enough to have a reasonable defense system. In support of this, I willingly served in the military.

To have adequate military is one thing, but to have a defense budget like ours is over the top. To me, the excess of our military is demonstrated right here in Port Townsend. I understand that the Navy has a designated operational area within reach, but still insists on flying over communities, practicing military maneuvers in parklands and generally disrupting civilian life in our area.

I am reminded of a time I was on a bus in Mexico. We got pulled over at a road block, and three heavily armed soldiers came on the bus. They walked slowly down the aisle, staring at each person, one by one. I was really scared.

The not-ignorable roar of a Growler going overhead is just another form of military intrusion into our lives. Is this overreaction? I never thought we would have a Trump for president. We need to be careful.

I ask that the Growlers practice maneuvers in a place other than Olympic National Park; that the Growler activity be diverted as much as possible from our communities.

I suggest that we have enough Growlers. Let’s not add more.

MIKE KAILL

Port Townsend