Letter To The Editor: In Support Of Jim DeFeo

WILMINGTON, MA — Wilmington's town election is fast approaching, with voters going to the polls to decide multiple contested School Committee races Saturday.

Wilmington Patch invited readers to submit letters to the editor to Patch. Michael Daniels, a former Wilmington resident whose children go to Wilmington High School, wrote to endorse three-year term candidate Jim DeFeo.

Related: Wilmington Town Election Voter Guide: How, When, Where To Vote

If you want an endorsement published in Wilmington Patch, here's what to know:

• Email all letters (or questions) to chris.huffaker@patch.com
• Make sure to include your full name and town of residence (if outside Wilmington) as well as any elected or appointed offices you hold or have held.
• Submit all letters by Thursday.

Letter to the editor from Wilmington High School parent Michael Daniels:

Hello Wilmington Voters

My name is Michael Daniels. I’m a father of twins who are currently sophomores at Wilmington High school. While I no longer reside in Wilmington, (Plainville, MA) I’m actively involved in the Wilmington community as a parent. I am submitting this letter of endorsement for Jim DeFeo, who is running for a Wilmington School Committee seat on April 24th.

I have known Jim DeFeo for 10 years. He is the stepfather of my twins and I couldn’t ask for a better role model for them when I can’t always be present. Jim has taken to my kids as if they were his own, which is not always easy when you have four of your own. He successfully blended his children and my children to become a blended family that includes myself, my girlfriend, and my stepchildren.

Jim DeFeo is all heart. A retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, he put his heart into protecting our country. As a Boston Policeman, he protects our streets on a daily basis. He has served our country, our state, and now he is looking to serve the Wilmington community on the School Committee.

Jim brings leadership, courage, and compassion to a possible seat this April 24th. He will be a voice for the students, the parents, and the community. Jim will stand for the values that brought my family to Wilmington 20 years ago. My ex wife and I chose Wilmington for the schools and the close bond the community shares. He will hold the schools accountable and ensure our children are positioned for success. Jim will help keep our kids in school by working with both the school committee and students/parents to be the voice and ears for both.

It’s not easy to trust someone to help raise your children. I put my trust in him 10 years ago and I’m so glad I did. My kids are flourishing both academically and athletically. Jim will work endlessly for your kids too. I urge the Wilmington community to vote Jim DeFeo on April 24th for a seat on the Wilmington School Committee. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Michael Daniels

Plainville, MA

This letter was produced by Wilmington High School parent Michael Daniels. The views expressed are the author's own.