Thanking the Veterans

by Brian Leubitz [courtesy of Calitics - Front Page]

Today is November 12, one day after the real Veterans' Day and the day of observation for government workers. So, today, how about we all find a veteran and thank them if you didn't do so yesterday. Sure, you could choose the easy route, by thanking your family. I'll be sure to send mad props to my father, a Vietnam vet, who rarely reads this blog (but if you happen to today, Dad, Thanks!).  But, consider this:

The National Alliance to End Homelessness reported Thursday that, although one in 10 Americans is a veteran, they account for 25 percent of the homeless population. Already veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan have been found living on the streets. (Home News Tribune 11.12.07) 

Homelessness and poverty are alone enough reason for us to reach out to those on the streets. But it is even more tragic to see veterans bearing the brunt of homelessness. Often they are victims of mental illness, and we have no capability to treat  them. Thank the glorious Ronald Reagan for that. So, next time you hear some politician spouting off about how they "support the troops", ask them if they support the homeless veterans as well.

Find a California Dept. of Veterans Affairs Veterans Day event here (pdf). And, if you're interested Jerry McNerney is attending an event in Stockton to honor veterans.