A new report reveals that, on the average on any given day, 131,000 veterans are homeless, and over a year, double that number are homeless at any point of time.
This information was revealed by the Veterans Affairs Department and Senator Bob Menendez, Democrat of New Jersey.
This news just adds to the traditional view that we have dedicated men and women who offer their service, and often their lives, to their country’s security, and yet, our country has been remiss in its treatment of our soldiers when they return wounded physically or mentally, and when they have trouble finding work, and when they need our help as thanks for their service.
It is so much easier to send troops to war than take responsibility for them after they have done their service! This is a national scandal, and it is time to change the way government deals with our heroes.
The fact that the Obama Administration has brought attention to this crisis is an encouraging sign that we may finally have a Presidency dedicated to real commitment to those people who keep us safe and secure from harm!
I’m always amazed at the number of elected officials who wave the flag, spout praise for veterans, and then vote against educational benefits, counseling, health care, etc. because it is “too costly”.
As a veteran, when I enlisted, I was promised health care through the VA for as long as I lived for my service during the Viet Nam era (fortunately, I didn’t have to go to Viet Nam). Apparently I lead a short life. Cut backs in the VA medical care have placed me on a “don’t call us, we’ll call you” list.
What also bugs me is those that wave the flag the most and exclaim their support for veterans, are the first to vote to cut the benefits.
Not only what you have said, but we also know that many who promote military intervention have not served themselves, while others who question military intervention HAVE served. Dick Cheney is a good example of the former, and John Kerry a good example of the latter!