Dear Editor,
Dave Salys, I agree with you, Sir, on two points: that we need more cops to patrol our streets, and that the cell phone law doesn’t work.
But I must defend our police at least against one of your thoughts, as I do not believe they sit and play Solitaire on the tax payer’s dime or dialing for donuts on the “super-secret police radios.” I’m sure you are just being sportive with those comments. I have had to rely on our police a number of times due to a harassing neighbor. They have responded quickly and toned down what could have been a conflagration due to the immature and unprofessional actions of said neighbor. I’m sure if ever you will need them, they will be there and you will be thankful for that!
The blame for the lack of police in Billings, I believe, lies with Mayor Bill Cole. A number of people throughout his tenure in office, have complained about his concern mainly for the prestigious areas and (our tax money) projects within Billings. He must take ownership for an inept lack for strategic planning for city growth, seeing how Billings has grown so big so quickly, yet lacks in emergency needs such as what Dave Salys, and we citizens/taxpayers of Billings, bear witness to. I believe Cole will attempt to run for higher office with his current resume, and probably as an “Independent,” such as those that are actually Democrat but try to wear sheep’s cover during their campaign(s). But we know wool when we see it!
A recent and dangerous situation with Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin grabbed the attention of the nation with his recent seizure. We’re glad he’s ok now, but a comment by a reporter did not set well with me and I’m sure with many police, first responders and military, and I am an avid supporter of those professions. The reporter commented that when a footballer puts on his uniform and goes onto the field, “he’s putting his life on the line.” Buffalo chips to that comment, and where is the concern and thanks for the three professions I’ve listed?
How about the thanks for the ambulance folks that tended to him? How about the concern for the police lives lost in the line of duty? In 2022, 229 officers died in the line of duty by gunfire, mishaps and Covid-19. I believe the Covid deaths are directly due to the required shots in order for them to keep their jobs, then the blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, etc. Another heartfelt concern of mine is, how about the 25 K-9s that died doing their duty, out of mainly pure loyalty to their handlers? There is never any talk or concern for those loyal American pets!
Outside of first responder deaths, how about our (athletic) youth, dying seemingly every other day? I blame the Covid-19 shots their parents honestly thought would protect them!
Jose A. Bustos, Jr. MSgt USAF/USA (Ret)
