Letter sent to President Richard Nixon by Frank R. Schoonover

26 Pro Apokane writ Y comment, Spokane, Wa P-601 May 5, 1974 The President The White House Washington, D.C. Sir: My family and I were among the military community of Fair- child AFB that welcomed you and Mrs. Nixon to Spokane and Expo '74. For most of us, seeing a president is probably CS/2 a one-time event which evokes many thoughts--mostly about the joy and privilege of being an American. It is regret- table that all the people cannot share this sobering and thrilling experience, because in it lies the embodiment of our system. Here is the legacy of my vote. In the presence of the president, those of us who love this country cannot help but feel closer to what America really stands for. In an instant one is transported into our his- tory. People, places and events long buried in memory pass in fleeting thought and over 200 years of history become alive. It also reminds us that we have always weathered the trials of time and have emerged a stronger nation. In your Expo address you spoke of turning points, fresh new ideas for tomorrow and of different philosophies working in harmony with the environment toward peace. We are also in need of political turning points, new ideas for today and different national philosophies working in peace toward a goal. Perhaps the sparkling, beautiful day that ushered in Expo '74 was also the start of these things. I hope, Mr. President, that you were encouraged by the majority of the 75,000 common ordinary citizens at Expo who, regardless of their personal political feelings, also displayed the common ordinary courtesy of respecting the office of the presidency, and who overwhelmingly enjoyed a visit from their president. Perhaps it was indeed the start of a new day. Frank FRANK Sincerely, R. R.Schoonar SCHOONOVER Lt Col Frank R. Schoonover USAF, Retired West 3921 Indian Trail Road Spokane, Washington 99208