Politics & Government

Commissioner Gary Kriesel Sounds Off on Recent Blog Post

"I respect Mr. Behnings' right to his opinion—as offensive as it is—because I spent four years in the Navy protecting our freedom of speech," says Gary Kriesel, Washington County Board member.

Written by County Commissioner Gary Kriesel

As a veteran, I am particularly offended by Mr. Behnings’ scurrilous accusations

At a recent informational gathering at Boutwells about the school levy,  I recognized the 9/11 attack on America and commended John Baird, a member of the greatest generation for his sacrifice and service to our nation. 

I also talked about how the "intellectual war" waged between China, India and America will determine who will be the dominate economic power in the world.

It is my opinion that national security depends on a highly educated populace if we are to preserve our freedoms.

I never asked veterans to support the levy so any suggestion that I politicized the event on the “backs of veterans” is most offensive to me. I respect Mr. Behnings’ right to his opinion—as offensive as it is—because I spent four years in the Navy protecting our freedom of speech.


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