"I would rather you just said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand a post. Either way,
I don't give a damn what you think you are entitled to."-Co. Jessep, A Few Good Men.
Watching alot of the debates and politicians talk about Iraq/Afghanistan, the phrase "support our troops" gets thrown around alot. (Mostly by
politicians who never served and wouldn't let there own kids serve)
As someone who is a war vet themselves ( I served 2 tours in the first Iraq war) I heard this phrase thrown around only loosely.
Now with Iraq 2:Electric boogaloo going on I see and hear it more often. Spewing from our disingenuous politicians and plastered
on the back of gas guzzling SUVs as a faded ribbon. I try not to get annoyed when I think about the millions of vets who cant get health care,
that are homeless, or can't find a job. We face a huge dilemma when this war is over(it will end. but who knows when). There have already been
major cuts to VA benefits. There is also talk of getting rid of MORE benefits in the future. Usually the first thing that is cut after a draw
down is veterans benefits. Most vets wouldn't ask for these benefits,But we shouldn't have to.
We have an all volunteer military and to give that sacrifice of our time, life and dedication should not only be rewarded, but be honored by the citizens of this great country. I am not talking about statues and tax dollars, but just plain support.
Non-military people have at least one responsibility and that is to VOTE. If you cant do that one thing then all this fighting and dying is for nothing. So please use that vote to help out your fellow Americans who have sacrificed so much. Vote in people who will address the oncoming vet crisis with civility, honor and understanding.
Veteran Links
http://www.votevets.org/
http://www.vetsforfreedom.org/
P.S. This is my first diary, so please be gentle. ;) thanks!