It hasn’t been often during my over 50 years of having chosen to live and work in Maine that I have felt compelled to write a letter to the editor.

However, recently I had the good fortune to meet and converse with a fine young man, Ryan Hawes, who is looking forward to serving our community after having served our country in Afghanistan as a U.S. Marine.

A refreshing spirit of commitment, intensity and willingness to serve his neighbors struck me, as does a breath of fresh air on a crisp fall morning.

Ryan is a lifelong Mainer (with the exception of his Marine service) and is married with two boys. He is seeking a seat for Ward 2, and I am looking forward to having him seated at the table of our city’s leadership.

I ask voters to support this fine example of the best and brightest Auburn has to offer.

Rollie Heckethorn, Auburn