To the Editor:

I have been watching and reading the many reactions and comments concerning the sadness we all suffered in Connecticut. As I have grandchildren the same ages as those young souls, it has been especially heart-rending for me.

People are railing against the National Rifle Association, while others "dig in" to protect our right to bear arms. Still more worry about the cost of deploying police officers to our schools. But during this discussion, it becomes clear that there may be a solution that is acceptable to all.

Let's let our country's grandfathers and grandmothers protect our schools. I would be more than willing to stand guard one day a week (or more) with a radio that could bring a police officer to the school in minutes if I spotted something not right. While one person guarded the front door, another could be deployed as a walk-around person (also radio-equipped) to detect anyone approaching the school other than from the front of the building.

We would offer this service for free, of course.

How about a home guard for our most precious of treasures? It would be at no cost, act as a sure deterrent and give us a purpose that is far greater than a round of golf.

Robert Skog

Daytona Beach Shores, Fla.

(Editor's Note: The author grew up in Westborough.)