Memorial Day
Today, Americans pause to honor those who have died in the service of our nation. From the founding of the republic, citizens have found ways to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the service of our nation.
Typically, communities have an All-American Parade with marching bands and Scout Troops. Others have patriotic remembrances at town cemeteries or Memorial Parks. Like you, I will pause today to offer my quiet thanks for their service and sacrifice.
When the day is done, Congress must decide how to best keep the promise made to today’s soldiers. The New G.I. Bill is a step in the right direction. The enhanced benefits for soldiers are a step in the right direction for service men and women who have earned the benefit.
When you see a service man or woman – thank them and then tell them you support the enhanced benefits contained in the new G.I. Bill.
Wrong Move
While most of us approve more benefits for Veterans, I cannot support this new bill. It allows a person serving three years to collect benefits that do not belong to him/her. By the time they make it out of basic training and onto their specialized training, a year is pretty much over. That person does not have enough time in grade or service to complete a tour of duty in Afghanistan. (I won't use Iraq because you obviously do not agree we should be there.) Further on, that person returns home and gets out of the military. You have over 100,000 people who serve longer terms overseas doing more for their country than the person serving only three years and receiving the same benefits. I am sorry, but that does not make sense to this 13 year Marine Corps veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan.
Who are you kidding?
"...does not have enough time in grade or service to complete a tour of duty..."
My son was sent to Iraq just a month after he completed his specialized training. That's the way it is now. How long has it been since you served? This administration is squeezing the life out of our armed services, and wants to give them nothing in return. And McSame keeps voting against increased benefits. Go get 'em Jennifer!