Please vote

Veterans Day is coming.

Once again I will hear, “Thank you for your service.” Many people will express to me their thoughts about patriotism and politics. I will remember my lost and wounded comrades. We all made some sacrifice, great or small.

Then I will ask the speaker: “Did you vote?” Typically one-third of us do not vote in presidential elections. Midterm elections usually have a very much lower rate of participation.

I know that voting is not easy. Sometimes the choices seem terrible. Sometimes the issues are complicated. It can be exhausting. Do it anyway. Countless people, including many of my friends and family, have given years, limbs and lives to this country. You can spend some time with the voter’s pamphlet and your ballot. If you don’t, please don’t thank me.

Election Day is coming.

Michael S. Tonkyn

Spokane