I t is a shame that they are letting Fort Monmouth go. It is unfair to make New Jersey suffer, with all the people that need the fort. A lot of retired military are living in Monmouth County that need medical, commissary, craft center and other services offered by Fort Monmouth. Lots of men need the job they have, and they don't want to leave their families and homes.

It gives New Jersey and New York a secure feeling having Fort Monmouth. The housing on Pinebrook Road could be used for the veterans coming home from the war in Iraq. Some have no place to go or jobs to go to. These men have served their country and come home with no place for their family. The homes are just sitting there vacant. We are getting too many places without the use they need. Nothing is done with the Tinton Avenue property where the house was taken down. Is the government trying to make New Jersey a deserted town? Please look into this.

I lived in Monmouth County most of my life. My family was in the service. My dad was in the Signal Corps for 32 ½ years. My husband's father was in World War I and my husband was in World War II. My sons are in the National Guard and another in the Air Force. Fort Monmouth was our life.

Couldn't Fort Monmouth make contracts for businesses and let them pay their way, even if you keep some of the fort going? Lots of the fort personnel don't want to leave New Jersey, so lots will be out of jobs. The labs will cost money to rebuild and there may be a way to keep them here.

I work as a volunteer and have over 1,000 hours of service. We have classes here to make things - arts and workshops. It is good for rehab and to keep people's minds alert. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my letter and listen to my concerns.

Geraldine Whalen

Eatontown