Veterams

[Gregory Matthews]

Veterans:  Probably many of us do not realize the cost that our veterans often pay for serving us as citizens of this United States.

I am reminded of a family in which the Father once, many years ago, served in one of the branches of the U.S. military.  He had his wife had two (2) children, and a son and a daughter.

*  Both enlisted in the U.S. military and served through several terms.

*  One served multiple times in Iraq and  on the so-called front lines, which is a misnomer.

*  One served for a number of years in an important post that required a high degree of intellect, but did not have immediate contact with enemy combat forces.

*  One was unsuccessful in marriage, probably due in part to issues related to military service.  Both children and adults have been affected by the breakup of this marriage.

*  One never entered into marriage, also probably due in part to issues related to military service.

*  One sustained the loss of limbs and is 100% rated by the VA as disabled.

*  One is rated at 80% disabled.

*  Both physical and psychiatric issues are involved in their disabilities.

Folks, this is just one family of  people who have voluntarily agreed to place their lives on the line in the service of their country.