To the editor:

Recent local events have sparked an emotion inside of me that I feel I must share. After high school, I served five years in the United States Marine Corps. I have traveled the world and have seen things and places that most only dream of. But I will always remember my desire to be back home. None of it compared to Dubois County.

I took great pride in telling my fellow Marines of what home was like. Many didn’t understand — as if places like this no longer existed. I felt bad for them. Most had no desire to return to home, while I anxiously awaited the day I could buy that one-way ticket back.

I dreamed of returning, buying a home, starting a family, providing my children with the wonderful childhood I had myself, and I have finally achieved that goal. This is why I served — to help preserve this way of life.

Now, the homes and futures of those I swore to protect are being threatened with the construction of the Mid-States Corridor. I cannot help but feel betrayed by the very thing I longed so much to return to.

Many here do not understand what a special place this is. It is rare and something many Americans believe is long gone. I remember when I was young, my dad would always wave to oncoming vehicles. I would ask, "Who was that?" and he'd say "I dont know, just being nice." Trust me, that’s not something that happens everywhere.

I understand this life is not for everyone, but why should those of us who appreciate this be punished with destruction? Why are we wrong, or selfish, for not wanting to be stripped of what we have? I've heard the arguments, they sound like empty promises and wishful thinking.

My story is not unlike many others, and pales in comparison to the tragedies many will face if the Mid-States Corridor is completed. I only hope those in favor can see what will be forever lost under all of that pavement, and consider the impact to their fellow community members.

—Clint Breitwieser
Dubois