Honor our veterans today, always
Less than a month ago, a report out of Washington, D.C., revealed continuing challenges for veterans who need health care and other services in the aftermath of service to their country.
A presidential commission outlined changes that would require action by Congress, such as payments for wounded troops to help with the transition into civilian life; compensation for injury-related loss in earnings and coverage that takes into account changes in quality of life.
Donna Shalala, health secretary in the Clinton administration and a member of that commission, said the current system of disability payments is outdated, mired in bureaucratic problems that confuse veterans and fails to compensate for how a combat-related injury will affect their daily lives.
It's disheartening to realize that those who have selflessly and courageously served America aren't getting the care they need. We want things to change, but know how slowly the wheels of federal bureaucracy turn.
ON THIS Veterans Day we can, however, focus the lens a little closer to home and take stock of how we're honoring and serving our own veterans. Recognition of local veterans is occurring on several levels.
In July a new veterans memorial was unveiled at Depot Park in downtown Kalispell with much fanfare and a 21-gun salute.
The monument is of a combat soldier kneeling in front of a comrade's hastily dug grave. Its base lists the names of all Flathead County servicemen and women killed in foreign wars. Chuck Olson and Jack Heller spearheaded the project and are to be commended for bringing the community together in a tangible way to show appreciation for local veterans.
A couple of weeks ago the Daily Inter Lake reported on another project under way to honor all local veterans. Led by James Korn, the staff and trustees of the C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery set out to gather the names of local veterans and list them on a thank-you page that can be found on page D6 of today's Inter Lake.
Explaining his mission, Korn said veterans' service "has always been and continues to be the very definition of what being an American is all about."
We couldn't have said it better.
There are a tireless few who year after year continue to make life a little better for veterans, through the Veterans Food Pantry in Kalispell and the annual Veterans Stand Down in Libby. Remember, they always need donations and more volunteer help.
The Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls presents another opportunity for citizens to volunteer their time, even if it's simply to stop by and visit or play cards with a few of the residents.
A Veterans Day ceremony is planned at 11 a.m. today at Depot Park in Kalispell. It's a chance to salute some of America's bravest, and don't forget to say thank you.