http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine en-us http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine N/A admin@leatherneck.com Sun, 06 Jul 2008 20:39:43 EDT 20 http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/13/Veterans-LoyaltyFollow-Up.html At Ease, Devil Dogs! The intent of this article was not to divide our own community, but to bring attention to Vets that are in positions to help all Vets, but do nothing regardless of what uniform or branch they served in.  As I stated in the article, “I do not mean to offend my reserve Marine brothers or sisters, especially the young enlisted Marines.  Their intentions are honorable and their service is valued”.   I believe the reserves are changing and rapidly acquiring the reputation it had during WWII and Korea as a result of their involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan.  There is no question there have been Reserve Units that have perform in an exemplary manner during operations in both Gulf Wars with individual acts of bravery that are now apart of Marine Corps history and legend.  We are all Marines first and foremost regardless of designation or MOS; we all earned the right to wear the Eagle Globe and anchor the same hard way.  But this does not excuse some; like Congressman Murtha and others, Reserve or Regular, who seemingly use the Marine title for other than honorable purposes and fail to tend to the needs of there fellow Veterans for whatever reason when they are in a position that can influence change.  Here is a small example of what I was referring to:   TALLAHASSEE - Governor Jeb Bush today signed the 2006-2007 state budget, demonstrating his continued support for veterans and their families. The budget allocates 75.1 million to the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA). This year’s budget increase will fund the construction of a new State Veterans Nursing Home in St. Johns County, renovations to the existing five skilled nursing facilities, and the assisted living facility. Florida’s veterans are grateful for Governor Bush’s unwavering support, said Colonel Rocky McPherson USMC, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. I join all Florida veterans in thanking the Governor and State Legislature for their work on this year’s budget…    Now on the surface this looks good, but if you were to investigate further you’ll find the problem.  The budget is for a total of $73M and it has $66M directed towards new construction of one facility and renovations of others.  The remaining budget has NOTHING for benefits.  The next largest amount in this Veterans Affairs budget is for salaries…the $66M out of a $73M dollar budget is all construction.  But here is what concerns me. SB 1882 HB 1263. Related to Disabled Veteran’s Business’s and State Government Contracts.  The bill as filed would set a goal of 3% of state government contracts to disabled veteran owned businesses . Died in Appropriations Committee!    We have a veteran’s unemployment rate of 16% in this country.  It is hard for Vets transitioning back into society to get a job, especially disabled Veterans.  These Vets certainly aren’t on the top of anyone’s list.  And they had an opportunity to set aside 3% state contracts for Disabled Vet Owned Businesses and it was DENIED.  WHY?  $75M in construction and renovation for Veterans on Veteran facilities and Vets can’t get a piece of it and nothing towards other Vet needed BENEFITS.  WHY?  In my opinion, that budget is all smoking mirrors when it comes to really helping vets with what they need.   So, where is the advocacy?  Where was this Vet Administrations looking out for its Vets and understanding Vet issues and current needs?  This is just a small example of what maybe happening in other local, state and federal government agencies; window dressing and no substance.   Now with the reserve thing,  I’m just as upset over “COLONEL” Murtha as many of you and yeah, he is a reservist.  It really bothers me that he apparently doesn’t correct his title and continues to allow the use of USMC vice his more accurate title of USMCR…WHY?  Why does he allow that?  Is he not proud of his reserve designation?  Can someone explain that to me?  I see other reservists proudly use USMCR or USNR.  In fact, I used it when I was USMCR!  What bothers me is this, I trust this congressman is expending just as much energy on ensuring the Vets returning, especially those with disabilities, are going to be taken care of and are afforded meaningful opportunities to be productive members in the society they just defended as he is expending on his grandstanding with a USMC title for seemingly political purposes and agenda.  Reserve, Regular or Salvation Army what he is doing and the way he is doing it seems wrong.    My article is all about Vets expending more energy at taking care of Vets;  if we don’t and if we don’t ensure those that represent us do it as well, we’ll always get the short end of the stick.  I get upset when I see Veterans magazines and press clippings day after day of young Marines and Soldiers in wheel chairs missing legs and arms.  The recent incident involving the torture of those two Soldiers and the way our 3/1 Marines are being treated at the same time pisses me off!  And it doesn’t help when you see on a VFW magazine cover a 19 year old  Soldier from the Third Infantry Division missing legs, an arm and one eye.  19 years old!!!!  I sat in my chair and stared at that picture and tears came to my eyes as I thought about what kind of life is this kid going to have after he is discharged and finally released from the hospital.  Who is going to look after him for the rest of his life?  I’ll tell you who, we are and we should as VETS!     I saw what happened to the Viet Nam Veterans, I saw what happened to the disabled Veterans returning from that war and what they had to and continue in some cases to endure. I DO NOT WANT THE SAME THING TO HAPPEN TO ANY OF THESE YOUNG VETS after this war!!!  And than, I see a 75M dollar budget for construction and renovations which certainly isn’t going to do much for Vets like this.  This concerns me and this is why we need to ensure we are holding Vets in positions to influence change and ensure benefits and care with dignity are held accountable.  We should no longer tolerate anyone and especially another Vet rolling over to another political agenda when it comes to helping Vets.  NO MORE SMOKING MIRRORS AND LIES!  The opportunity for Disabled Vet Owned Businesses to get a piece of the $75M contracts was killed in committee.  Wouldn’t that be helping Vets?  Wouldn’t that be providing opportunities to Vets?  Now, unfortunately, the non-vet big business owners will most likely grab these contracts with their political pull while Vets get NOTHING.  This is what I was talking about when I said Vets in positions of influence have to be more pro-active in ensuring Vets are taken care of; they need to be watchdogs.     Take a look at this budget, its on line, does it look like it has anything remotely resembling or having anything in it concerning the needs and concerns for younger veterans?  You can look at the overall budget and see Vets were at the bottom as far as allocation of funds...increase or not...it looks like more smoking mirrors, more BS and what’s worse it gets a Veterans face saying it is OK and THANK YOU.    Where is the advocacy for disabled Vet employment that was denied in committee?  Why was it denied?  Where is the advocacy for taking care of homeless Vets, making sure Vet Preference is enforced, looking after the young disabled Vets who can’t and probably never will get jobs worth anything?  Is it the same in your state or community?     Vets don’t want handouts, they want opportunities!  Where are we providing for that?  Here in Florida it looks like the young Veteran and especially the disabled veteran will have to muttle around and make do until he or she can get into one of these Vets homes...WHO IS REALLY LOOKING OUT FOR THE YOUNG VETS???  WHO?  Where is the that Veterans Advocacy by those Vets in positions to influence this sort of change?  It may be too late for many of us older Vets and the Viet Nam Vets certainly have a bitch in this area, but we can collectively join together to ensure the younger Vets aren’t treated the same way….....This is the point of that article.        "Becoming a Vet came with a price, representing Vets comes with a price"  Robert Adelhelm Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/9/Whatevers-fair.html I realize that there will be some that do not share my opinions on some and maybe all these subjects, but the idea here is to direct your attention to issues that are having an impact on Veterans, Retirees and Marines and provoke some thought and discussion.  If I can get some of you to look at, review, analyze and maybe act on just one issue affecting veterans and/or Marines, than maybe we can stop the ever increasing erosion of benefits to the military and veterans and be better prepared to help the younger Marines just joining the ranks of us veterans.     Some Marines and veterans have other interests and concerns and don't have the time or inclination to worry about or get involved with issues such as the one associated with military health care fees.  And there are those who believe true sacrifice, like true charity, when made openly and voluntarily, should not be made with expectations of reward; times change and things get more expensive for everyone.  I submitted to them, this isn't about rewards or things just getting more expensive.  I certainly don't consider my health care benefits a reward and I was well aware of things getting expensive through out my career and having to do without or having to make life style adjustments in order to fulfill duty assignments because of salary limitations.  For most, if not all career Marines, it wasn't about the money and our rewards came in the form of just being able to spend a lifetime serving with and leading Marines...that's why we stayed.  You can not put a price on that!  This issue concerning health care fee increase is about keeping a promise, a commitment and ensuring the commitment made to military men and women who earned these benefits through a career of arduous service, including wartime service, is fulfilled.  This is about stopping a consistent erosion of benefits for those that are willing to serve this country and especially those who make the military a career.  This is about being fair.          General Pace is not the Commandant of the Marine Corps, but I expect that our Commandant, General Michael Hagee, is aware of this issue and has had his say on the impact it could/would have on Marines, active, former and retired.  This may not be and rightfully so, a priority for him; the readiness and welfare of his active duty Marine force, is and should remain his focus of effort so that they can perform their ever demanding missions safely and successfully.  To become overly burdened with the issues concerning veteran Marines and retired Marines is not something he should or could take on with the current military situations in the Middle East and thus looming elsewhere.  I don't believe personally contacting him is the way to address this issue either.  I am also sure all the service chiefs understand the impact of changing mainstays like military retirement pay and military health care can and will have on retention and overall readiness.  They had to deal with this when the "high three" retirement was introduced and replaced the 50/20 retirement plan in the 80's.  I'm confident they have stated their concerns/opinions and like good Marines and soldiers carry on with the missions at hand trying to take care of their active duty warriors the best they can.  The leadership for addressing issues involving changes such as this comes from grass root support within the veteran and retiree communities and organizations like the VFW, American Legion, Marine Corps League, MOAA (Military Officer's Association of America) and individual Marine veterans and veterans in general.       This change may not impact all…yet.  But as they say, "let the camel's nose under the flap of the tent and get prepared for the rest of him". If left unchallenged, this increase and reneging on another promise/benefit could generate further changes in other areas of medical health care and associated costs for more than just retirees.  It could impact reservists and the most recent additions to the veteran's communities, those with horrific disabilities returning home from the Middle East, those who have already sacrificed too much.  They too will end up having to share in this cost increase.  For those who say there is always the VA, does anyone really think the VA alone can handle all this?  The government has been cutting that budget for years despite the efforts of the VFW and American Legion.  The VA is struggling with what they already have to deal with and   although the VA has done better since the Viet Nam Era, it still has a ways to go.  It's time veterans stop allowing themselves to be treated like mushrooms and get more involved and challenge some of these decisions.  They should be able to this without accusations of being disloyal or being unsupportive of whomever or whatever organization is proposing the changes.  We are not nor should we be blindly obedient; we should question, we should ponder, we should continuously evaluate and we should protect and guard our benefits and privileges as veterans.  At least the ones we still have left.       Although Marines have this image of being blindly obedience to orders and maybe there are some that actually do it or have done it that way or still believe this is the way we do things, I can assure it not the norm.  Marines know the time and a place for blind obedience and we know when it has to be executed it is under the premise of faith, trust and confidence in fellow Marines, especially the leadership.  This, however, is neither that time nor that place.  Just because someone says something is good or bad, doesn't always mean he or she is right or in it is the best interest of ALL.  There is a time for questions, identifying what the "intent" is and what the impact is going to be. This is healthy and what makes Marines different despite the belief, we blindly obey orders, we do challenge things and we do that well.  Read our history, we have Marines that challenged the conventional thoughts of the time...Smedley Butler and Al Gray to name two.  They questioned, challenged and were strongly opinioned in regard to all things Marine and affecting Marines.  The impact both had on the corps is legendary.   My mental faculties remained in suspended animation while I obeyed the orders of the higher-ups. This is typical with everyone in the military. Smedley Butler    War is a racket. It is the only one international in scope. It is the only one in which the profits are reckoned in dollars and the losses in lives. Smedley Butler   I don't run democracy. I train troops to defend democracy and I happen to be their surrogate father and mother as well as their commanding general. Alfred M. Gray  All of you are assistant mothers and fathers. That is an awesome responsibility. Alfred M. Gray The average Marine vet most likely is not aware of how the system works and only thinks in terms of "the system and my leaders will take care of me"; this is the way we were trained.  As veterans and dealing with veteran's issues that philosophy doesn't work.  This current issue on health care fees may not be big issue or concern to some, but consider the average retiree, a SSgt or Captain, with a family and a retirement that barely meets basic needs.  Increase costs associated with their benefits only drives these vets into tougher financial situations or puts the burden on their extended families unless they are fortunate to be independently wealthy or have the luxury of a second retirement.  Who stands up for them?  Who is making sure they are getting a fair deal?  Haven't they sacrificed enough throughout their careers?  I sound bitter some say, no not bitter just very concerned about the trends in the reduction to military benefits for veterans and retirees and the lack of concern for doing something about the military pay gap.  I am convinced that the only way this will change is if we all stick together, stay aware, and become ever vigilant in regard to making sure all veterans are treated fairly, respectfully and honestly all the time and yes, do it objectively.  I also realize that times change and costs increase, but how many times do we have pay.  MOAA recently posted the following in their current issue as part of an article on their efforts to challenge the increase to health care fees:  RETIREES UNDER 65 ALREADY GAVE 10%…Just a reminder to those that may have forgotten and served during this time frame, for most of the 80's and 90's military pay raises were capped BELOW the private-sector pay growth.  These caps already depressed retired pay an average of 10% for service members who retired between 1984 and 2005.  For an average 05 who retired in 1993, this is more than $4000 per year.   I applaud MOAA for taking a stand on this and other issues affecting those of us that made the military a career and the VFW and American Legion's stand on VA co-payment increases for all veterans.    Yes, it was a lot of sacrifice and some gave more than others, but it isn't just about the sacrifices; it was a calling, it wasn't done for the money, it was done because we loved our country and corps.  We did it, we STAYED IN because we LOVED BEING AROUND MARINES. But as an old Gunnery Sgt use to say to me from time to time, Whatever's fair, Sir; I submit to all those that are indifferent about or want to see any increases in costs for vets and career military for whatever reasons…Whatever's FAIR!  Robert Adelhelm Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 EST http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/8/HONOR-COURAGE-COMMITMENTIs-the-change-really-for-lifewhen-it-comes-to-the-core-values.html Are these values just another PR marketing tool being used for recruiting or are they values we honestly believe in and abide by… for life?      I remember when there was a big push in the early 90's to get these Core Values out to all Marines and ensure they all understand them.  Instructors were assigned at all commands to present the Core Values and explain what they meant to us as Marines.  We were very successful in doing this and subsequently have made them a major part of everything seen and "done" by Marines from basic training to career level assignments.  But do we actually practice what we preach; do all measure up to this standard…is the change really for life?     Honor Honor guides Marines to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior; to never lie cheat or steal; to abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; respect human dignity; and respect others. The quality of maturity, dedication, trust and dependability commit Marines to act responsibly; to be accountable for their actions; to fulfill their obligations; and to hold others accountable for their actions. Courage Courage is the mental, moral and physical strength ingrained in Marines. It carries them through the challenges of combat and helps them overcome fear. It is the inner strength that enables a Marine to do what is right; to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct; and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure. Commitment Commitment is the spirit of determination and dedication found in Marines. It leads to the highest order of discipline for individuals and units. It is the ingredient that enables 24-hour a day dedication to Corps and country. It inspires the unrelenting determination to achieve a standard of excellence in every endeavor.   There is no question that these values have been, in some form or another, what have made the Marine Corps what it is in the eyes of the American public. The period of 1938 to1953 in Marine Corps History epitomize these values.  When Americans think of Marines, it is hard not to visual the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima or the walk out of the Chosin.  Being a Marine meant you were different and Marines proved it.  It is no different today just look at Iraq and Afghanistan.  Becoming a Marine sets you apart and really does affect you for life.  We are seen by many as what an honorable, courageous and committed individual is.  Our Core Values are the bedrock of what being a Marine is all about and what helps make us different.  So, why than do some take such a narrow view of them, why don't we strictly enforce them without the exceptions?  Or are they just a marketing tool with no real intent and purpose other than taking a back seat to expedience?  It sure does seem that way sometimes.   In the interest of stimulating some thought on the subject, let me take some aspects of each of the values and attempt to explain.  Maybe I am being too idealistic to think these values can be followed exactly as stated without the exceptions.  But it is hard for me to accept that Marines can't be held to a higher standard; after all, we already proved we can accomplish what some considered the impossible, so why not when it comes to living up to our Core Values and do it for life. Let me use the following examples from each of the values as defined and taught to Marines and try to provoke your interest:     Under HONOR…hold others accountable for their actions.   Under COURAGE…Moral Courage is moral strength, the will to heed the inner voice of conscience, the will to do what is right regardless of the conduct of others.   Under COMMITMENT…. It inspires the unrelenting determination to achieve a standard of excellence in every endeavor.    As Marines, we have all taken an oath to protect and defend the constitution against all enemies so help us God.  Remember?  Well, here than is the dilemma.  If the same Marine who took that oath before God now has reneged on his vows of marriage, which are also taken before God, why or how can he or she be trusted to abide by the oath of a Marine to defend the constitution?  Do we not consider vows/commitment to another or is this an "exception" and acceptable?  What is the meaning of commitment to those that have been married 3, 4 and even 5 times?   Do we have Marines and Marines in leadership positions that fall into this category?  Is this a good example of a person that understands the value of commitment?  Commitment means sacrifice; sacrifice that comes in many forms.  Should we tolerate this exception?  Is this value only meant for selective implementation within an organizational framework and ignore on a personal level?  If so, what are the exceptions to how and when to demonstrate a sense of commitment?  In both situations, they were, in most cases, sworn before God, but not abiding by ones vows 1, 2, 3 or whatever number of times still mean you have a sense of the value of commitment?  Can you be expected to trust someone under a life and death situation or any situation that has a selective sense of commitment?  Is this too old fashion?  Too hard?  Too idealistic?  Is this one of those, it depends on what the meaning of what IS, IS?  I know it touches a sore subject for some, but an oath or vow before God should be the viewed the same…a commitment!  Exception and acceptable?         Moral Courage we have been taught, at times, is more difficult than physical courage. It is the foundation of character; the ability to stick up for what you feel is right, regardless of the conduct of others and the consequences.  But there are too many cases where individuals attempting to demonstrate this value have become victims and/or made out to be rogues/troublemakers, especially when the complaint is against a person of authority or influence.  It seems that moral courage and adhering to one's own principles is getting to be more and more difficult in today's society; those that adhere to this value are usually left to fend for themselves without the support or commitment from others.  Others that stand on the side lines and just watch even though they know what is happening is wrong.  This seems to be the norm in today's society and it makes it more and more difficult for Marines with Core Values when transitioning to the private sector.  In the eyes of many we are the epitome of the highest standards and these values.  Therefore, some are going to shy away from Marines, because it may force them to adhere to the same values or high standards or suffer the consequences.  The lack of ethics and values has become more and more acceptable in many areas of society.  Ethics and doing what is right has all but disappeared and this has carried over to some areas of the military and government.   There are just too many situations where individuals demonstrating moral courage, abiding by or demonstrating a sense of commitment to values and principles become victims and eventually are penalized or denied opportunities.  What's the alternative for those that try to stay true to their Core Values and try to remain ethical?  Go with the flow or become the preverbal salmon swimming against the stream who suffers for being different?  Do we allow exceptions to this value to survive?  One would think that what is right is right and having the sense of commitment to values and principles shouldn't mean you have to deal with a plethora of exceptions used by individuals with other than honorable intentions to survive in any environment.  Should we Marines have to set aside our values and principles in the interest of discretion or should we be steadfast when it comes to them no matter what with no exceptions…Is the change for life?  Too idealistic?  Too hard?      The last item, under Honor, is holding others accountable for their actions.  Unfortunately, both in and out of the Corps, this depends on whom.  We are all created equal, but let's face it; there are those that are more equal then others.  Again, maybe I'm being too idealistic to think this can be applied fairly and evenly to all.  But, if we are going use it as a part of one of our core values, we need to make sure it is fairly, evenly and justly applied to ALL.  NO EXCEPTIONS!  This may be easier to do in the military than in the civilian sector, but it has also been abused there many times and recently.  Sometimes rank has its privileges and there are situations where some have gotten away with what others get punished to the letter of the law.  Exceptions?  When it comes to accountability and holding individual's accountable, it seems to be getting increasingly more difficult.  It appears that power, influence and money have become key factors that allow many to do whatever and whenever they want regardless of values or the law.  What do we do as Marines with our higher standards and sense of values when dealing with situations like these?  Accept them?  Is the change for life?  Too hard?         Maybe these values are just there to be movable "guide" lines deluded with exceptions.  Maybe they are just "goals" we hope to achieve or maybe they really are nothing more than just a marketing tool, empty phases and meaningless clichés on posters.  For some of us that served in the Marines or with Marines know what being a Marine is all about; these Core Values are what we are, what we stand for, who we are as individuals and why we opted to become Marines and accept the calling.  Yes, it is hard to live by this set of Values like these, but who ever said being a Marine was easy.  I believe these values can be applied in everything we do as Marines, but it takes a high degree of sacrifice and, a willing to remain a beacon of what we stand for as Marines by not accepting any exceptions or an easy way out.  To do anything less, would only make those values nothing more than meaningless and empty phases that adore posters.    We have those amongst us that have become too "Semper Me" and have forgot the true meaning of Semper Fi and what being a Marine is all about ALL THE TIME and staying true to the values of HONOR, COURAGE and COMMITMENT.  Values that long before the Corps decided to institutional helped make the Marine Corps what it is and attracted exception individuals to our ranks.  If the change is for life and Once a Marine, Always a Marine is truly a calling, Semper Fi should always prevail and these values should remain with us forever. There should be no tolerance or room for those who fail to abide by them.  This is what makes us different as MARINES.  Real and honest understanding of these values, strict adherence to them by all at all levels in the Marine Corps and amongst all Marines; they are the bedrock of our character as Marines and they do not need to be compromised with exceptions.  No exceptions when it comes to the Core Values; we need to be and continue to stay true to the fact and the belief that the only EXCEPTION in today's society is a Marine with unwavering CORE VALUES.       For those of us that are now amongst civilians, this is a challenge.  The only way we are going to survive with our values intact and continue make a difference in are communities is to stick together and strictly adhere to and enforce these values in the same manner expected of us when we wore a uniform.  We need to epitomize these values individually and collectively in all that we do, how we do it and NOT tolerate those that fail to adhere to them.  In a society that has lost the meaning of ethics at every level, we need to be beacons and guardians of these values for our brother and sister Marines departing the Corps, so they can set their sights on those who still work with, protect and practice a sense of values.  They need to know that these values really matter and they really are for life with NO EXCEPTIONS.      The core values can continue to guide us in becoming the point of the spear in our civilian communities in regard to ethics, standards and values just as Marines have been the point of the spear for the armed forces throughout history because of their character, a CHARACTER based on HONOR, COURAGE and COMMITMENT.  But the change really needs to be for life or these values become nothing more the empty phases and meaningless clichés that adorn posters.  We need to send the message that First to Fight and Guarded by a US Marine still is powerful!   Sound off!  What do you think…Is the change for life…Too idealistic to think we can be true to the Core Values?   "If everyone could be a Marine, It wouldn't be the Marines" Robert Adelhelm Wed, 29 Mar 2006 00:00:00 EST http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/7/What-are-they-thinking.html The Department of Defense along with the support our own Marine Chairman of the Joints Chiefs, General Peter Pace and a Reserve Marine General Officer endorsed an increase in military health care fees.  They claim they have not been keeping up with the costs civilians have to pay.  You believe this crap!   And from a couple of our own too.  Yeah, no kidding our health care costs are lower.  They are suppose to be lower to offset the simple FACT we don't/didn't make as much as those who decided not to serve and sacrifice.  Remember them?   The thousands that "had more important things to do" than serve their country.  If military health care benefits have to be on par with civilian costs, why not everything else; military salaries, housing benefits, sacrifices, etc, etc. The fact that our health costs are not keeping up with the civilian sector is a good thing; we deserve the break!  After all who did all the sacrificing, who moved all those times who left families behind who ran the risk of being killed or worse disabled and who did it all for a salary that was near or in many cases at the poverty level.       The erosion of military benefits over the last two decades has been appalling.  What are those of us who serve and served disposable assets?  Where is the GRATEFUL NATION TAKING CARE OF THOSE THAT SERVED?  Those that are serving and those that served are the first the government always uses to offset increase government costs.  Why not look to those that stayed behind and had the opportunities to make those bigger wages with less sacrifices and tap them.  Helping to defray increased costs associated with the military can be their contribution to the freedoms they enjoy and didn't have to sacrifice for.  Service men and women have sacrificed enough already, especially those that have made the military their career.   I always thought the idea behind lower costs associated with health care, commissary privileges, etc was to off set the FACT we don't make as much as our civilian counterparts.  They want to increase and take away the last remaining benefit to make it COMPARABLE with civilians, than make everything in the military comparable with the civilians right now and make some retro-active.  Is this another lame brain move by the same sort of folks that brought us the "high three" military retirement plan.  That was just another way to screw the serviceman out of a couple bucks and it did wonders for retention.  It didn't take long before it was view as not such a good deal and started an exodus.  Rightfully so too!    Where is the moral courage on the part of our own to stand up and say this isn't right?  Why is it that those that move within the beltway whether in uniform or not all start sounding alike after a while?  I am sure this increase in health care will not affect either one of those two generals, but what about the average military retiree who had to struggle after retirement, is still working to make ends meet or worse yet is living off a fixed income.  The military retirement check doesn't go all that far to the surprise of many civilians coupled with the fact that military folks worked for lower wages during their careers and their Social Society, which is based on your income, isn't comparable to many civilians either.  When is enough, enough!  Why does it always seem that those who are always willing to stand up and protect and defend this country keep getting screwed?  And to make it worse, this is all the plan of the Department of Defense and supported by current military "leadership".  What the hell is going on?  When and who is going to start taking care of those of us who made the decision to serve this country….WHEN!  Where is the leadership NOW, where is that morale courage to stick up for what is fair, NOW?  Is the government really concerned about taking care of those that serve and served?  Or are we just a disposal asset to be used and abused whenever and where ever those that don't want to serve or sacrifice need us and then so easily can renege on promises now with the support of some of our own.  KEEP THE PROMISES, TAKE CARE OF THOSE THAT ARE WILLING TO SACRIFICE; let's get back to the basics of understanding that "A man who is good enough to shed his blood for the country is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards".  How about a square deal for once!           Robert Adelhelm Fri, 24 Mar 2006 00:00:00 EST http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/5/United-we-stand-Divided-we-fall.html We can be "ONE POWERFUL VOICE" "An' Tommy ain't a bloomin fool, you bet Tommy sees"   Veteran's organizations and veterans in communities throughout this country can be an extremely powerful force that can press for legislation that can improve veteran's benefits and services that are so desperately needed, deserved and earned.  Unfortunately, veterans and veteran organizations act too slowly, unfocused and uncoordinated when trying to influence elected officials or when dealing with elected officals who start to delay or block veterans benefits and services.  This lack of organization amongst veterans and veteran organizations paralyzes the veteran's effort especially when dealing with legislators who, for the most part, are and have been prone to ignore or just give "lip service" to fundamental needs of veterans. The same legislators who have used veterans as a back drop for their political campaigns and than ignored their promises and responsibilities to the same veterans while supporting frivolous "pork barrel" appropriations.      If veterans are going to make a difference, veterans and veteran organizations at all levels need to become more organized, focused and pro-active when it comes to dealing with issues affecting veterans.  Some veteran organizations have their own agendas, their own goals and objectives and in some cases, unfortunately, their own little empires in which they do not wish to have infringed on by some other veteran's or veteran organizations, thus diminishing their ability to generate any influence or create any positive change.  This has been a problem in the past when it came to trying to collectively address veteran's benefits/issues and ensuring the promises made to veterans were kept.  Although many veteran organizations and individual veterans take the time to write or visit their legislators to present their concerns over these problems, the lack of an organized effort produces little to no results or usually generates the standard facsimile signed thank you letter for contacting me.   These same actions, if pursued vigorously and collectively by powerful veterans organizations, can gain attention and produce quicker results towards focusing efforts where they need to be. But the power of any organiztion comes from its members and membership.  As veterans, if we are going to continue to  make a difference, we need to JOIN a veteran's organization where we can start, along with fellow veterans, vigorously addressing the critical issues affecting all veterans today.    "Patriotism is not a short frenzied outburst of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime"     Veterans and veteran's organizations need to get more focused and stay ever vigilant on ensuring benefits and services are improved and the promises are kept. Only veterans take care of  veterans and as long as veterans continue to "fight dispersed" they will not have the "fire power" needed to concentrate on the issues that affect their benefiits and get the much needed attention of legislators to ensure veterans are given a square deal.  We need to start taking care of our own and start focusing our efforts towards MAKING sure legislators provide more than just a mere "lip service or a thank you for your service.  We need to make sure that all "thank yous" equate to benefits and kept promises for our SACRIFICES and service.       I encourage all veterans to start by joining a veteran's organization; together with "ONE POWERFUL VOICE", we can make a difference.  We can ensure a grateful nation really takes care of all those that serve and served.   "A man who is good enough to shed his blood for the country is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards".   Teddy Roosevelt Robert Adelhelm Thu, 23 Mar 2006 00:00:00 EST http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/4/What-did-the-big-Bush-say-to-the-little-Bush.html As legend has it, Pappy Bush told Junior: "Take care of the Marines and they will take care of you." Who said George Bush the First wasn't wise beyond his years?   Since taking over the Oval Office in 2001, GW has taken Pappy's advice to heart, appointing 3 Marine Generals to key positions. General James Cartwright, Commander, U.S. Strategic Command; General Peter Pace, Vice-Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff; and General James Jones, Supreme Allied Commander, Europe.   In addition, GW has allowed the Marine Corps to take the point in his "War on Terror." Probably the best decision he has made since declaring war.  So why is the Bush administration suddenly going to war with the current Commandant, General Michael Hagee?   News broke this week from inside the beltway in about General Hagee's possible resignation due to the potential cutback of 5000 Marines. You can view that article here: www.leatherneck.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27536&highlight=commandant   Is it just me or does President Bush have his priorities a little out of whack? Bush has boldly spoken out in support of the UAE port deal. In fact he said he would veto any bill which would stop the deal. So why isn't the President stepping up and stepping in to resolve this issue with General Hagee?   Sounds like Pappy needs to give Junior a whooping.   Jerry Shaffer Tue, 14 Mar 2006 00:00:00 EST http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/3/Best-Form-of-Flattery.html They say that the best form of flattery is imitation. If this is true then I must take great pride in what has been created at Leatherneck.com and even greater pride in all of the websites that imitate Leatherneck. In the past 5 years I have come across several Marine online communities. All of which have several resemblances to Leatherneck. I am sure there will be many more to come. Often imitated but never duplicated....Yes I do take great pride in that.   Semper Fi Jerry Jerry Shaffer Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 EST http://www.leatherneck.com/ezine/blogs/1/Another-Leatherneck-First.html Welcome aboard and pull up a foot locker. It is my pleasure to introduce to you our latest feature, the Leatherneck Ezine. This professional newsletter will help distribute additional content, news and opinions to our fellow Marines, families and friends. As the pioneer of the Marine online community, we take great pride in the continuing advances of Leatherneck. As Leatherneck is a true community, your participation is highly recommended. If you have any advice, ideas or wish to contribute, please don't hesitate to contact us. Enjoy! Semper Fi, Jerry  Jerry Shaffer Sun, 12 Feb 2006 00:00:00 EST