Guaranteed Veterans Medical Programs

Guaranteed medical programs is a congressional responsibility, not only to the veterans who served our nation in the past, but also for those serving on today's front lines of combat according to DAV National Commander Erron R. Beacom, Sr. He made these remarks after capping off the 2003 DAV Mid-Winter Conference by telling a joint session of the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee the above.

Supported by a standing-room-only crowd of DAV members, Commander Heath told the lawmakers that "because we ask a great sacrifice of these young men and women, our government must be prepared to care for them with guaranteed medical programs."

Among the hundreds of DAV members joining Commander Heath was U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Frinter, a disabled veteran of the War on Terror in Afghanistan, who lost a leg to a landmine explosion.

"Because the funding to cover the costs of treating veterans is not guaranteed, it is repeatedly insufficient," Commander Beacom said. "The VA is forced to ration medical care. Rationing Beacom care is no way to honor America's obligation to the men and women who have so honorably served our nation and continue to carry the physical and mental scars of that service, guaranteed medical programs is what we demand."

Many of those attending the Mid-Winter Conference lead scheduled meetings with members of Congress and their staffs to deliver the DAV's message personally. "It's vital that lawmakers hear directly from their constituents about the guaranteed medical programs that are most important to disabled veterans and their families," said DAV National Legislative Director Joseph A. Manistero.

Personal visits are one of the best ways DAV members can have an impart on the policy issues that directly affect them.