MONMOUTH - Congressman Phil Hare gave the Memorial Day address Monday during the American Legion Post 136 service.

Hare, D-Ill., is in his first term representing the 17th Congressional District. Like his predecessor, former congressman Lane Evans, Hare did not mince words as to where he stands on the multitude of issues regarding veterans.

Hare has been working to improve healthcare for wounded vets and to make sure vets receive various benefits.

Hare informed the audience there are currently 600,000 health care claims that have not been processed. The average waiting period for a disability claim is 177 days.

"This is help that they (veterans) have earned, it should be immediately processed," stated Hare.

The goal is to get claims down to 145 days. Hare was emphatic that he will work until the claims are processed.

Hare explained the veteran patients have more than doubled during the war against terrorism but the staffing has increased by just 10 percent in the veteran's hospitals.

"Surely this is no way to honor veterans," stated Hare, "We have a moral obligation."

Hare serves on the Veterans Affairs Committee and was asked, how can we afford it? Hare stated, "How can we not afford to?"

A fully funded veterans healthcare is one of the many goals Hare hopes to achieve as Congressman. He explained how he witnessed people from all different organizations expressing the trauma and problems the veterans have.

"Not all wounds are visible," said Hare. "The veterans have been taken for granted and we need to stand up for them."

Hare expressed that yes it is a sad day but it is also a day for remembrance and celebration for those men and women who paid the ultimate price and what they meant to us. Not to remember them for one day, but to remember them every day.

"We must promise ourselves today, that we won't take no for an answer, said Hare, "God Bless all of you Veterans."

The Monmouth Municipal Band, directed by Jim Betts, performed a patriotic prelude prior to the service.

Others participating in the Memorial Day Service was Loretta McKee - who led the Pledge of Allegiance, Reverend Gerald Marlow, Pastor of the Four Square Church, gave the opening prayer and the Benediction, and Martin Edwards acted as the Master of Ceremony for the Service.

Leroy Davis explained the symbolization of the POW/MIA table. For each item the POW or MIA.

Cheri Stanton, American Legion Post 136 Auxiliary, read the numerous wars, conflicts, and theaters during the Lying of the Wreath as one by one veterans attached a single flower representing each named.

Christa Waller, American Legion Post 126 Auxiliary, explained the "Gold Star" Banner and its meaning. A presentation was planned but family members were unable to attend. The "Gold Star" Banner will be presented to the family in June.

When service concluded, the audience was invited to the parking lot where the Joint Honor Guard fired the 21 Gun Salute, then invited back in for refreshments.