I loved reading the column written by Andy Hobbs (June 29) in which he thought out loud about having a veterans memorial in Federal Way.

Let us not misunderstand the reason for a monument. “It is to serve civic life as an example of a single powerful idea.” — Michael J. Lewis, Williams College Art Professor.

Federal Way, let’s take a closer look at our community, as Andy suggests. He ardently describes the good that bonds us as we revere our servicemen and women. We are diverse in backgrounds and characteristics, yet we share the same “yearning to be free.”

As we celebrate America’s 236th birthday, we remember the debt we owe to generations of brave men and women who are willing protect us to their last breath.

We are celebrating what we share in common, that we are united.

The veterans memorial is a fine idea.

I put my personal impetus behind it. It can show our love and respect for the best of America, our veterans.

We can build a monument to touch…and to touch us.

United in our conviction that we are one. We can have it, if we decide to.

Maureen Bernardy, Federal Way