“I think that the opinions of those who have personal experience are important. But the issue of war is an issue of public policy, and I think everyone's opinion on it is equally valuable.”

— Carol Eades Delnevo, community volunteer, Lawrence

“I wouldn't differentiate between the opinions of veterans or nonveterans unless they've served in this war, been there recently or were actively involved.”

— Jakob Wozniak, musician, Kansas City, Mo.

“I think I would place more importance on the opinions of someone who has had that experience over someone who hasn't. The more recent the experience, the more importance I would place on them.”

— Bethany Nesbitt, sales associate, Overland Park

“I would expect their voice to carry more weight than those who haven't experienced it.”

— Jason Williams, firefighter/paramedic, Lawrence