A New Fight for American Veterans

Although yesterday was the "official" holiday, many will celebrate Veteran’s Day today. We can never repay the debt we owe the brave men and women of our military, but we can honor them by working to make sure our government keep its promises.

This is a time to offer gratitude to those who made incredible sacrifices for this country, in our stead. It makes no difference if one agrees with the current war or any other war. Those who have sacrificed for all Americans, those who have served honorably throughout this nation’s history, not only deserve our humble thanks but also deserve to be honored. They should also be assured that the promises made to them will be kept. Unfortunately, our leaders seem to be reneging on the promise to care for Veterans, and have been for far too many years. Walter Reed hospital is and has been a disgrace, including when it comes to outpatient care for Veterans, as detailed in an op/ed in the Boston Globe. Another poignant opinion piece from The Buffalo News sums up the situation with this statement, “Injured troops were, and to a great extent still are, afterthoughts.” Veterans are also having a difficult time finding work. Some feel discriminated against, with complaints of this nature rising 31 per cent, according to ChicagoBusiness.com. Sadly, many have had to accept low-paying jobs that they are more than overqualified to do, if they can find work. Lack of work is but one of the reasons that Veterans are over-represented in the homeless population. A shocking report by The National Alliance to End Homelessness, revealed that although Veterans only make up 11 per cent of the population in this country, they make up roughly 25 per cent of the homeless population, per the Associated Press. The American people have long been known for generosity. Giving to charity to help provide for Veterans is no exception. Unfortunately, many of these so-called charities are receiving failing grades from charity watchdog groups like The American Institute of Philanthropy. This includes formerly respected groups, as reported on ABC’s Good Morning America. Giving less than 35 per cent of total contributions to Veterans will earn a charity a failing grade. Appallingly, some groups gave as little as 2 per cent, although those running some charities seem to profit handsomely, enjoying six figure salaries and other perks. The founder of Help Hospitalized Veterans collects a half million-dollar salary each year, but that’s not all. His wife also collects a cool half million, according to ABC News. Apparently, “charity” has become a very lucrative industry. What can the average person do to help Veterans? How can Americans truly honor those who risked everything, those who suffered greatly, and those whom still suffer? Every man and woman of voting age can start by letting elected officials know that all of the above are unacceptable. Let lawmakers know that the people are aware of the plight faced by many Veterans today and that accountability is in order. There will soon be even more Veterans returning home. Something must be done. This is not a partisan issue; it's an American issue, and there is no better time than election season for Americans to make their voices heard. Visit Congress.org to find out who your lawmakers are if you’re unsure. You can also locate contact information for legislators at this page. Our Veterans fought for us; it’s time we fought for them.