| Questions for Veterans |
| by Pam Baker | |
| Tuesday, August 14, 2007 | |
 Dear Veterans,
Because of Eddie, I learned a lot about veterans. I have to admit I was short sighted and uninformed; I did not even know to say "Thank you for serving."
Eddie did not feel that he deserved any help. I have learned that a lot of veterans who have endured hardships do not feel they deserve help (yes you do!) but that they would never hesitate to help a comrade.
Eddie wrote a letter to VA on behalf of his comrades before he passed away, in it he wrote: "Veterans should be compensated for being in combat; one day in combat should be ten years compensation." He told me that unless you have been in combat you have no idea what it is like; nothing can prepare you for being in combat.
The question I want to ask is simple: What can the rest of us do to help?
If you do not feel comfortable answering for yourself, let me put it another way. What do you want for your comrades? How can we help them?
Either way, please help us to help you. You matter to us! Add to:           Comments
(3)
by Bill Dozier , April 18, 2008
by Bonnie Tierney , May 17, 2008
This website is unbelievable and it "hits" home. Most veterans will not ask for help and that is why I have shared my own story, Locked In Time - I Still Remember and Always Will because the simple fact remains - just saying "Thank you for serving" to most veterans will bring tears to their eyes. You care and that's what matters. Some of us, like Eddie have to make ourselves vulnerable in order to help other veterans. Every day is a struggle but like Eddie, I do not believe in senseless Wars - I do not believe in War. I guess one has to be in the middle and see the horrific sights to come to that conculsion - but then again, I would hope many would just learn from our experiences. Mental Health issues are rising and more and more veterans are facing the truth - "There is no shame in seeking help!" Do not walk to the VA my fellow warriors - RUN as fast as you can - your life depends upon!
by Don Morgan , May 19, 2008
We are a hard-headed group. We have been trained to fend for ourselves when all else has been lost or gone wrong. I am one of the worst but finally got the help I needed through VA. I used the Paralyzed Veterans Association. Use any of the veteran's groups out there. They have the contacts and know how to get through the system. War is terrible and there never should be one. However, I went and these young men and women are going not just once but some are on their 3rd tours. My son went as a Private and now is going back as an E-6. He now understands the leadership responsibility of directing men in combat. I would go in his place if I could. I will sign off by saying that I am proud of ALL veterans who have served and allow me to enjoy my retirement.
|
I guess the best thing anyone can do is to bring to light ANY and ALL stories of sub-standard care for our veterans. Your website is serving a great need ... a sincere thank you