On Sept. 16, "NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw" reported for the third time of the fight wounded military veterans have been waging. The war is a battle to retain retirement pay earned for a career in defense of our liberties and freedom.
For years this was a lonely and comfortless struggle. Not so anymore. The American people have spoken. Every veteran's service organization and a great many military retired and active duty advocates have placed the issue, which is referred to as concurrent receipt, at the top of their "must achieve" list.
Our legislators heard this plea for justice and equity and they have taken up the banner. Congress -- 402 representatives and 82 senators -- have overwhelming vowed to change the quirky law that allows the U.S. government to take promised retirement benefits from disabled veterans.
But just as integrity was to prevail along came the Bush administration with its insults and threats of veto, and admonition that they are not afraid of veterans. With this issue about to be debated in committee it is no secret that their warning of veto is intended to intimidate the less principled. This they do while building a case to take an action that will surely spill the blood of many of our young present day patriots.
It also is no deep mystery that they would like nothing more than to augment their forces of disruption and denial. In North Dakota their man is U.S. House candidate, Rick Clayburgh.
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As a proud North Dakotan, and veteran of 20 years military service, it would be inspirational and heartwarming to see all North Dakota veterans, and their families, invest in their future and sent a unified message by swarming the voting polls in the November election in support of their fellow brothers and sisters. If this should happen those who speak of gratitude, but whose actions reek of disrespect might mend their way.
Joseph Ohnstad
Master Sergeant, U.S. Army (retired) Fargo
