Political people in US

Vietnam veterans see our young, returning Iraq War veterans returning home to almost the same situation that they did. Unlike Vietnam veterans, Iraq War veterans were not drafted into the military since the draft no longer exists. Like Vietnam veterans, however, Iraq War veterans are fighting an unpopular battle.

It is understandable that the military discharges disabled soldiers since they are no longer of any use to the military. However, the military not only discharges them from service, but disowns them from the point of discharge forward. There is no one available when an injured and disabled Iraq War veteran is discharged to assist them with finding help when they need it. Yes, there are Veterans Service Officers available, but many, many young veterans go home without any help.

I spend a considerable amount of time at the VA Hospital and see the older Vietnam veterans forging bonds with the new and younger Iraq War veterans because they have much in common. Both groups returned home from foreign soils to the US and a "so-what" attitude from friends, family and the population in general. World War II veterans, on the other hand, returned home to a grateful nation where strangers put them up overnight, bought them beers and dinners and slapped them on the back as they walked down the street.

Unfortunately, our own government is treating these young veterans the same way. Very few get the help they need to return to civilian life. Fortunately, the news media is publicizing the terrible conditions of the Veterans Administration hospitals which may force the current administration to improve the hospitals. In many cases, the immediate medical care is extremely good, but the follow-up care is terrible. These young vets are patched up and either booted onto the street or in care homes without vocational training or therapy to teach them how to deal with their missing limbs or tortured minds.

Even if you don't agree with the administration's actions in the Middle East, extend your compassion to our young veterans. These veterans have no political point to make. They are simply trying to become a productive citizen again.