Friends of veterans

How often do we as American citizens take our freedom for granted? Have we ever wondered why we are a free nation? Is it because of politicians who are elected to serve their country? Of course, they play a big part in the democracy of our country. But isn’t it really the men and women who have not only served but fought and died for our freedom?

We set aside one day a year to honor our veterans, yet some do not even acknowledge Veterans Day. We have Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s as national holidays, but what about the veterans who made these holidays possible to observe? I do not know of a true veteran who has come home and expected a hand out for having served their country, but yet the controversy about the Veterans Administration hospital seems to be a predominant problem to many who feel their needs are unwarranted.

I am a veteran, and I know how good it feels to have served in some small way to make our country as great as it is today. I recently came home from a two-week stay at the V.A. hospital in Togus. I cannot thank the doctors, nurses, staff, and volunteers enough, not only for me, but the bed-ridden and terminally ill patients. These people are treated with dignity and the highest respect possible. I’ve been in a few hospitals in my time, but I never came away with such a good feeling as I did at the hospital in Togus. These people should be commended for ther patients, understanding, and the care they give to us veterans. All I can say is, God bless them for being there. James Kearns Sr. Brewer