Patriot or Patrician?
A lot of political posturing occurs in the name of our troops. It's the 21st century equivalent of wrapping ones self in the flag. But how are our congressional members really voting on veteran issues?
Two groups, Disabled American Veterans and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, have independently created report cards for our representatives in federal and state offices. Before you vote, check out the actions of your congressman or woman, state representatives or federal on vital issues to the thousands of military people damaged in our wars. According to IAVA, 86 members of congress scored "D" or "F" on issues that matter to the veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan and their families.
Concussive damage to the brain is emerging as the "signature injury" of our conflict. Yet Congress has failed to pass measures to fund research for reversing brain damage in our veterans.
So: Who are the real patriots and who are the professional politicians?