To the Editor:
As a veteran of 22 years in the Army and S.D. National Guard, it is absolutely appalling to learn of the recent events that President Obama has indicated he plans to make in the VA, regarding the treatment of sick and wounded veterans.
Obama would be remiss in his proposal of treatment for veterans. We must not permit him to utilize the VA as a social welfare program or wealth redistribution system while pushing this system down the throats of the American public.
Treatment of disabled veterans cannot be compromised on any level. As veterans, we have served with the values of God, honor and country in our hearts and in our minds daily of our existence. The Pledge of Allegiance holds great value for us as we recite it. Playing the national anthem at a sporting event and holding your salute for just a few seconds longer reminds us of our comrades in arms and those we have lost and cherished. Saying a small prayer for those that are serving provides us great comfort while we remenber and honor. And hearing the bugle play Taps at a veteran's funeral while you try to hold back a tear tears us apart.
Apparently, President Obama does not have these same feelings for those who have fought honorably and courageously while serving our great nation.
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His proposals have a total disregard for many that have paid the ultimate price while serving our nation. It is not only humiliating to dishonor our disabled veterans publicly, it is simply disrespectful.
I am putting out a call of support to all veterans, families of veterans and our great citizens of the United States that morally support the men and women of the armed forces to take action now.
Call your congresspersons. Call the White House. Speak out and remind our political representatives and our president that you support our veterans and tell them these new changes are not acceptable. Disrespect from our national leader should not be tolerated.
Use your vote when the situation presents itself to elect a commander-in-chief that truly cares about our service members and all veterans.
Make it known that respect is not given, it is earned.
Sgt. Sean R. Moen
Retired Army and S.D. National Guard
Mitchell
