Opinion: Nonini affirms veteran support

July 29, 2014

Commander Steve Hanson

Post Falls American Legion Post 143

1138 E. Poleline Ave.

Post Falls, lD 83854

Commander Hanson:

I am writing to assure you that my support for our veterans, the American Legion in general and the Post Falls American Legion in particular remains steadfast, unwavering and unconditional.

The recent guest editorial in the CdA Press grossly misrepresented the facts. My wife, Cathyanne and I have a long history of support and involvement with the American Legion, and we look forward to that continuing. Upon reading the editorial our first concern was that this may cause anxiety to our friends at the Post. I would like to reassure you that there is no cause for concern.

As a Son of the American Legion I very much enjoy spending time at the Post. I have attended the Memorial Day Ceremony for the last 11 years as well as the Post's birthday celebration events. Cathyanne and I particularly enjoyed the anniversary banquet in March of this year.

While in Boise I organized a meeting in the Capitol in 2013 with the State Commander to get the details on what is needed to be done in the legislature to promote and accomplish the construction of the Post Falls Veterans Home. I always look forward to attending the legislative reception hosted by the veterans and the Idaho American Legion Posts. I also sponsored a special "support our Troops" license plate which raises money that is used to support the families of military members. I am proud to have these plates on my truck.

I am grateful to the Post Falls American Legion for allowing me to hold Town Hall meetings for the last three years at the Post, especially the one in April with Congressman Raul Labrador.

Cathyanne enjoys and has fond memories of performing with her violin at veteran events including the inauguration of former Attorney General Al Lance as National Commander of the American Legion, the Military Officers Banquet, the Native American Veterans Memorial on the Coeur d'Alene Indian Reservation, the Disabled Veterans Conference at the Coeur d'Alene Casino, the National Guard Banquet in Post Falls, every Post Falls American Legion Memorial Day Ceremony for the last 10 years and others.

My father was a WWII veteran. My wife's father was a Korean War Veteran. My wife's uncle was a Viet Nam and Korean Wars veteran and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Those that have served in the military protecting this country and our rights are special people for sure. They deserve everyone's support. I hope this letter reinforces to you mine and Cathyanne’s strong and continued dedication to serve those that have served. I will do all that I can as the Senator representing District 3 to see the construction of a veterans home to fruition.

Sincerely,

Senator Bob Nonini