Gerald Malloy on Homeland Security

F-35s in Burlington: jet noise is the sound of freedom

Welch, who supported the basing decision throughout the multi-year process, said he stood by his advocacy. "We're very proud of our National Guard. The Air Guard needs airplanes," he said. But he acknowledged that the planes' arrival had come with some genuine downsides for some nearby residents. "That's tough on some folks in the neighborhood. It really is. Because there is noise associated with that," Welch said. "And I've been a persistent advocate for noise mitigation, including buying up homes at a fair price if that's what the choice is."

Malloy said the jets were "part of our national defense" and called the roar of their engines "the sound of freedom."