VETERANS: Enough lip service

This is the season of flags and patriotism, starting with Memorial Day to Flag Day, extending to Independence Day and the fun of summertime. We are ready to stand up proud and congratulate ourselves for the sacrifice of our heroes and veterans. But this season, like all others, will be soon set aside for other interests. There is the occasional “Thank you for your service” or salute to men and women returning from deployment. But for most, the veteran will be forgotten until the next season of “Memorial day Grand Sales” and Fourth of July parties.

For many veterans, however, the season is never ending. There are those who struggle with the demons acquired in the wars for our liberty and safety. For many of them, emotional and/or physical trauma as a result of their service, has led to mental issues, substance abuse, homelessness and many other symptoms that act as a roadblock to a normal and happy life.

Programs are developed by many organizations intent on helping these heroic men and women who gave so much. Why are there so few resources? Why, in an economy that is thriving and robust, are vital programs and resources being cut in the name of budget?

There is a Veteran Affairs program administrated by St. Vincent de Paul here in Coeur d’Alene that is designed to provide transition housing and support to homeless vets. This program has helped many find a way to deal with the demons of war and find their way back to society. St. Vincent has been informed by the VA that as of Sept. 1 funds for this program will be stopped. With little warning and even less in the way of explanation, one more resource for the veterans has been eliminated.

As a disabled Vietnam vet who is lucky to have beat the demons, I am appalled and sorrowed by this action by the Department of Veteran Affairs. I request that all patriotic Americans speak out and show their support for all our veterans. As Americans, we must show that we mean it when we say “THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.”

RUBEN MIRANDA

U.S. Army Veteran

Coeur d’Alene