Ok, granted, I'm from "away," but I do own a camp in Maine and I have paid state taxes as a resident of Maine for the last several years of my military service. I have very strong feelings about the great State of Maine, her people, and natural resources. It is for this reason that I am compelled to encourage you to vote for one of those natural resources: Marine combat veteran, open-minded patriot, family man, and die-hard Midcoaster, Owen Casas.

Three moths ago, I retired from the U.S. Navy as a captain with 28 years service. That service included tours in Japan, England, Italy, the Balkans, Bahrain (Commander, FIFTH FLEET's Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence in the Persian Gulf/East Africa), and three tours on the personal staff of ADM Mike Mullen, including Special Assistant for Strategy to both the Chief of Naval Operations and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.

While serving in that capacity, I co-authored, with Marine Colonel Mark Mykleby, A National Strategic Narrative, published by the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars. That document focused on retooling our national interests at home and abroad in the face of complex challenges and rich opportunities. In fact, we have twice spoken in Camden on that topic, both at PopTech and at the prestigious Camden Conference. And it was through those speaking engagements that I have come to know and respect Owen Casas.

Perhaps the most gratifying aspect of my career has been my involvement with one of our nation's greatest resources, our young, skilled, and energetic veterans. Owen Casas proudly represents these dedicated young men and women who are eager to work within our democratic system of government to build the foundations of a better America, community by community, through vision and hard work.

Owen has been featured several times on the nonpartisan National Strategic Narrative website, and has been an inspiration to me and many others, allowing us to have faith that our country has the young leaders it needs to build healthier, more prosperous and secure families and communities.

As a voter in District 94 you have the opportunity to demonstrate that good ideas and strong leadership don't belong to any two parties alone, there is room for independent thought. This is something Mainers have proven over and over, and it is to your credit that you value open mindedness more than party-ideology.

Good on ya, Owen. He will serve you well.

Wayne Porter