Columns

Wednesday, June 18, 2003

independence day: honoring those who have served

Not much beats a Fourth of July parade in Iowa and the sight of Main Street lined with children and flags. This week, from Waukon to Waukee, Iowans will gather at picnics, band concerts, firework shows, and–my favorite–parades, to celebrate the principles embodied in our Declaration of Independence.

At the same time we commemorate the values on which our nation was founded, we honor the brave men and women who defend them. Our thoughts are with those stationed around the world, and with National Guard members and Reservists who are keeping our communities safe.

We also salute our nation's veterans, not only for their past sacrifice but also for their continued service. Our veterans give back to our communities in so many ways. I am reminded of this often, most recently when I received a letter from VFW Post 1655 in Newton. The Post shared with me their yearly activity of going to schools and teaching the students the history of the flag and flag etiquette. Younger generations learn a lot from our veterans about our nation's history and the price paid for the freedoms we enjoy. That is why I support programs such as the Veterans History Project, which encourage students to interview members of their family and community about their military service.

In Congress, I live by a lesson I learned during my time in uniform: never, ever leave a buddy behind. Our veterans, from those who served in the first World War to those returning home from the most recent Gulf War, should not be left behind. They should not have to wait months for an appointment to receive medical care and benefits they have earned. Unfortunately, this is too often the case.

I have supported record increases for veterans’ health care in recent years and am a leader in the effort to make that funding mandatory. I am also working to allow veterans to fill their prescriptions at the VA while they wait for an appointment. Additionally, in the past few years I have helped more than 100 veterans receive their missing medals. It is a matter of American values that our veterans are treated with respect and fairness.

This Independence Day, let us all take time to honor the people who have given and continue to give so much to preserve and protect the freedoms we enjoy. It is as simple as thanking a grandparent, e-mailing a soldier, or standing with hand over heart as the local Post walks our American flag down Main Street.

*** To find out more about the Veterans History Project, visit http: //www.loc.gov/folklife/vets/ or contact any of Senator Harkin's state offices.