To the Editor:

(To the people of Newtown): This letter is long overdue. It should have been written six years ago. But it took today’s tragedy to shake it loose from the lethargy.

I can’t imagine the pain all of you must feel all over again hearing of Dr Richman’s untimely death. But let me say at long last what I’ve wanted to say for years — I really admire and applaud your community for all your courage and compassion. You have been there for each other. You have tried to prevent other mass shootings from taking place by taking on the NRA, appearing before Congress, taking legal action against an assault weapon manufacturer, and facing up to the nasty naysayers on the net who claim the unspeakable horror that you endured is all a hoax. You are indeed heroic, caring people who deserve compassion and love and not strident voices of hate or fearful politicians too afraid to act.

So, Ms Hensel and all Newtown residents, especially those who lost a loved one on December 14, 2012, please accept my sympathy, but also my appreciation for trying to make this country a better, safer place to raise kids and help those who suffer from mental illness. You are models for all of us. Thank you.

Arthur C. Benedict

9 Sandpiper Road, Peaks Island, Maine         March 25, 2019