Veterans group defends disabled vets

Clyde D. Howe, Henderson

Friday, June 27, 2008 | 2:04 a.m.

In response to Leopold A. Potsiadlo’s Monday letter, I also think our grandchildren are not learning what our American flag stands for. They are not taught the Pledge of Allegiance at home or in school and have no respect for our flag. You can see this at a school graduation. Their parents don’t respect the American flag because they don’t remove their hats or place their hands over their hearts when the pledge is being said. Some don’t even stand.

I want it known that I too served this great country of ours for 20 years. I am a veteran of Korea and Vietnam. I served in the Navy (Seabees) and am a disabled veteran. I am proud that I had the privilege to serve my country.

As a member of the Disabled American Veterans, the Uniform Services Disabled Retirees and other service groups, I must take issue, however, with Potsiadlo’s criticism that there is no “outcry” from military organizations about the treatment our veterans are receiving when they come home.

I receive at least two “take action” e-mails a week from the USDR about the bills in Congress for these heroes. I take action on them and send out six e-mail addresses so others can do the same.

I agree with Potsiadlo that the Defense Department should pay these veterans their full pay until Veterans Affairs starts paying them their disability compensation.

But please don’t slam our military and our veterans organization. We are fighting for our returning disabled veterans and will keep fighting until the Defense Department and the VA can work out a smooth transition.