More on Veterans

Message 14 of 414

This is not about cars, per se, but about the people who protect us so that we can enjoy our wonderful hobby and all our leisure time!

I want to thank Tom (tvrpman) for his post a few days ago, and add this story, which I'm sure - since many of you are veterans - you will appreciate:

There's a flap going on in San Diego about a wartime mural at the Veterans Hospital which was moved from the main lobby to somewhere where almost no one will see it. The veterans are NOT happy! I think this letter, which was written to the San Diego Union newspaper, sums it all up. (See first reply.)

posted by StillAYankee

"Regarding 'Vet fights removal of war photos at VA site' (Michael Stetz, May 13):

"The San Diego Veterans Affairs decision to remove combat photos and replace them with 'pretty' pictures shows how little the hospital administration understands combat veterans. Those pictures are not distressing to a soldier. They are reminders that he is among those who served with him. Any soldier always feels safer when he is surrounded by fellow warriors. He can depend on soldiers. Civilians will let you down; a veteran won't. The combat art is also a reminder that the vet deserves the care he is getting. He has earned it. The art reminds the staff who they are taking care of and how much those patients are owed. Working in a VA hospital is not a job; it is a sacred trust.

"Finally, the combat art reminds the veteran of the man he is and was. He once marched into hell and spit in the devil's eye. That lifts the spirit more than any silly photos of sailboats. If the hospital administration believes it must replace combat art with something less martial, then use 'Playboy' centerfolds. Vets may be the last real men in America. Show them some respect."

This letter was written and submitted to the San Diego Union by Joseph Kolodziejski.
Again, I say Thank You to all veterans for allowing us to live in peace and safety! -- Maggie

posted by StillAYankee
5 months ago

Thank you , Maggie, that is very commendable, and from one old vet to all the rest thanks for your service. We live in an entirely different era these days, makes one considerably troubled about the condition of our nation. Times are changing so fast and they are not looking so great for the good guys.