It seems they are constant this time of year. Requests for donations to the Wounded Warriors Fund. Let me say first that I support these American Heroes completely. That they volunteered to serve and sacrifice their health and well-being to protect their fellow warfighters and our nation is one of the best examples of America. But that we need a wounded warriors organization to take care of them— that, in my opinion is one of the worst things about America.
The approximate annual budget of Wounded Warriors is about 1/5th of a single aircraft carrier. Or about the cost of (2) F35s. For the cost of two combat aircraft, the veterans administration could take care of the needs of these American Heroes. And they would not be dependent on the kindness of strangers. And, truly, they should not have to be. The issue of their long term care and support should be a source of national and government pride and one of our sincerest duties and obligations as a nation.
It reminds me way too much of firefighters after 9/11, who had to engage in an epic political battle for years to get the costs of their care funded. How is this right? How can any politician be happy when we leave so many who sacrifice so much to struggle, wonder, and suffer through even a moment’s worry about who will take care of them and for how much?
I guess its the way these days. Bake sales for kids to have supplies for schools; tv commercials to beg for help for veterans.
Where are our priorities as a nation. Where are our priorities as humans?
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