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H.R. 1818, The Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act (205 comments ↓ | 4 wiki edits)
H.R. 1818 would amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.
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A Veteran
July 27, 2009, 1:22pm (report abuse)It is pretty sad that someone has to come on here and belittle those who place there opinion. I don't have to prove anything to anyone! If you are a Veteran you are a Veteran plain and simple! The commissary privileges should be for those Active Duty, Selected Reserve, IRR and Veteran's! So, if you don't like the fact that we speak the truth, then don't read our blogs. As far as the children starving it is out there whether you want to believe it or not, look at the number of the Parents in the Military on food stamps or WIC for that matter, it's there and it's reality! Have some compassion and believe it what it is a Veteran did, does or has done. Regardless of what anyone else thinks as I said I can't speak for anyone else, they have to speak for themselves so again, I speak from experience, Deal with it. A Veteran!
A Veteran
July 27, 2009, 5:39pm (report abuse)I forgot to add Retires! That's automatically entitles them!
Thank you for every Veteran Past, Present and Future for serving your Country!
...
August 2, 2009, 2:13pm (report abuse)OK, Veteran, since you say "it is out there" how about providing a reference to something to prove your point. So far all I see from you is bluff and BS. Put up or shut up.
IZVet
August 9, 2009, 4:47am (report abuse)Obviously no name is nothing more than a NTAC. Leftist-Commie-Pinko-faggots like him/her/it are much of what is wrong with our country today. He/she/it doesn't deserve any more of our time.
...
August 10, 2009, 8:46am (report abuse)More bluff and loudmouth crap. Nothing of real substance.
Mark
August 11, 2009, 3:07pm (report abuse)Hey ... more bluff and loudmouth ....talk about smoke and mirrors.. Da Nile (or denial in your case) is not just a river in Egypt. It is a win/win for the BX,commissary and the community and the veteran and costs nothing and creates jobs.. Hello!
A Veteran
August 14, 2009, 1:42pm (report abuse)...I dont know why you think I have to prove anything to you.
First, who do you think you are tell me to "Put up or Shut up"!
Second, this is my opinion and if you don't like it then why are you on here.
I didn't ask you to give your thoughts based on my opinion.
Give your thoughts about the Bill and the Benefit of giving it to Veterans!
Third, Is this Benefit will benefit Veterans. If the Bill being passed can be utilized and it won't cost the Government anything to maintain the Bill what's your complaint. The Government will make money based on the usage of Commissary, Exchange and MWR by those Veterans and all Active Duty, Selected Reserve, IRR, and Eligible Dependents. If the benefit can be utilized and Veteran's can benefit and the Government will benefit from the usage then so be it.
So, take my opinion for it's worth and keep your opinion to yourself unless you are commenting on the Bill being considered.
Semper Fi!
Mark
August 18, 2009, 8:35pm (report abuse)Well said and ditto to "veteran" above
Larry G.
August 18, 2009, 10:09pm (report abuse)Why is it everyone who is a civilian that works on a military instellation can shop at a base exchage or commissary, even if they have never served in any military branch????
What about all of the Veterans who are disable due to service connected disabilities who have families to support, they have done there duty and service to our country and many have disabilities. Give them this privlige.
vet2fed
August 20, 2009, 7:52am (report abuse)Larry,
You are mistaken. As a disabled veteran who is a Dept of Army Civilian, I cannot shop at the PX/Commissary. The law prohibits it but the installation commander can grant exceptions - this usually happens when the base is particularly small or is remote. In the case where it is small, there is a minimum revenue threshold to warrant having a comm/px - if the military population cannot meet that minimum threshold, others are allowed to use it at the commanders authorization. When a installation is remote and it is unreasonable for the base civilians to be expected to do their shopping nearby, then some commanders will authorize. Generally speaking though, it is NOT allowed.
...
August 25, 2009, 8:47am (report abuse)By the way guys, the class-6 store is now pretty expensive. So when you go looking for cheap booze to support your habit you will be disappointed.
Diana
September 1, 2009, 9:24am (report abuse)Does anyone know how we can find out if this is approved or not??? I would really appreciate to be able to use the commissary!!!
Vet2Fed
September 3, 2009, 8:34am (report abuse)Diana,
I recommend calling your Representative and asking about it...while you're on the phone, you can ask him/her to co-sponsor the bill!
DedicatedVet
September 3, 2009, 12:28pm (report abuse)So Mote It Be.....
DedicatedVet
September 3, 2009, 12:37pm (report abuse)Why don't we just do a petition on the website and then we can email the link to our Representatives so that they will know that there are a lot of disabled veterans wants to have a px and commissary priveleges.
...
September 5, 2009, 3:19pm (report abuse)I don't know anyone in civilian life drawing workers comp who gets discounted groceries. And since VA comp is just another kind of workers comp why should anyone drawing it get discounted groceries either?
walt
September 8, 2009, 4:56pm (report abuse)Why not vote this in? It will cost the taxpayers nothing! Any stickers or id cards would and should be paid by the veterans!
walt
September 8, 2009, 5:00pm (report abuse)VA comp same as workers comp? Sunshine we got our a*&* shot at, shi%^ at, and NOT missed! We never had a chance to finish our military careers! Take a taste of reality, live in a disabled veterans shoes for a few years and then say what you like!
...
September 10, 2009, 10:13am (report abuse)Doesn't matter how it happened, the compensation is in the same classification as any other workers compensation. Check police and firefighters. They are in dangerous careers also and if they are injured on the job workers comp kicks in.
Nothing the government does ever comes without cost. Increase the numbers of customers and the number of people required to service the stores grows larger. Commissaries are subsidized. So the cost goes up.
Wysiwyg
September 14, 2009, 2:24pm (report abuse)I sure hope it passes!!!
blanco
September 20, 2009, 1:33am (report abuse)I only have va id card that says service connected(actaally only 50%). it has not allowed me to shop at px's or commissaries but it has allowed me to stay overnight on some army and navy bases. i guess it is up to the base commander. is there anything in the works so all veterans can stay on base ? don't you actually have to be 100% serv connected at this time ?
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 23, 2009, 2:16pm (report abuse)"..." is striking again.. with a load of uninformed opinion.
First lemme say that police and firefighters do get seperate compensation - not workers comp -for work related (public service connected)disabilities. As am a retired cop who is also a service connect vet I can actually speak to this fact..
I appreciate this "..." posters right to express his/herself but despise the "Vet Bashing" to the extent that I refuse after this post to even acknowlege this persons posts.. why don't we all consider this - take the fun out of it for the antogonist and they fade away.. I say focus on the issues, not the morons.
I hope my fellow vets get the benefit(s) they deserve.. they/we have earned them the hard way..
~Dave
...
September 23, 2009, 4:21pm (report abuse)First off - your experience does not necessarily carry over to other areas. In my city the firefighters and police officers are covered by workers compensation laws, not some special fund as you describe.
If you think being a veteran should give you some special place in life you are wrong. As has been said before - you are a citizen, and deserve nothing more than any other citizen. It sounds to me like you simply want something given to you because you didn't prepare well enough for retirement and now want a gimme to get you by. Typical whine.
Novus Livy
September 24, 2009, 11:12am (report abuse)So the whine continues. "I'm a disabled vet. I deserve ..." Bull$**t. You don't deserve anything just because you were able to con the VA out of a rating. Get over your victim mentality and get on with your sad selves.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 24, 2009, 11:14am (report abuse)Talked to my Congressman yesterday .. he is interested in co-sponsorship, but actually wants to read the bill first before deciding. I am cautiously optimistic - this is good news for all of us!
This morning I awoke once again proud to be a vet - this thread reminds me of why we answered the call.. it boils down to preservation of the rights of ALL Americans. For me it is and was worth it. As of today for retirement purposes, I will have nearly 42 years of continuous public service - military (4 years), law enforcement (retired after 22 years) and now with the National Park Service (pending 20 year retirement with "creditable military service" buyback). There will come a day soon when I look forward to receiving my retirement checks, Social Security check, continue receiving my VA disabilitity compensation check and yes, shopping in the PX and commissary with other veterans. Keep the faith everyone - life is exactly as it is weant to be!
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 24, 2009, 12:28pm (report abuse)Novus opines: "You don't deserve anything just because you were able to con the VA out of a rating."
I know from reading your well informed written & posts on other vet issues that you:
1)Are an Air Force veteran with a couple of tours in VietNam.
2)Are a cancer survivor (non service connected)
3)Argue consistently and vehemently against veteran benefits.
4)Often enjoy exchanges when engaged in intellegent conversation.
I have a simple question.
Why do you assume I "conned" the VA out of my benefits? I have a service connected disability that the VA provided for injuries incurred in military service (before my law enforcement career) - I didn't ask for anything. My service connected injuries and "disability" didn't stop me from moving forward with my life .. Why now do you make these assumptions when on other boards you chastise folks for making assumptions about you based on your negative attitude and for voicing your right to an opinion.. I don't get it Sir. Why?
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 24, 2009, 2:26pm (report abuse)UPDATE!
Phone conversation with Congressman Redonovich's aid in Modesto, California. The Congressman is in Washington today and will be "meeting with others" interested in moving this bill forward towards a vote.
A small step is better then none.. many small steps completes the journey - call your representatives often and ask for co-sponsorship of this bill.
~Dave
Novus Livy
September 24, 2009, 5:19pm (report abuse)Based on observations here and elsewhere there are a large number of veterans "gaming" the system to get and/or increase disability ratings from the VA. You may not be a snake but you cohabit with snakes so you are some kind of reptile.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 24, 2009, 5:44pm (report abuse)A 'reptile"? .. this explains my dry skin - and to think I thought it was simply old age.
Oh well.. back to work.
~Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 24, 2009, 5:47pm (report abuse)PS: I eat a cheesburger now and then therefore I am one.::shaking head:: - and I actually thought this dude was intelligent? Silly me.
~Dave
Novus Livy
September 24, 2009, 8:55pm (report abuse)Obviously that was too far over your head for you to catch. And yes, you actually could be a cheeseburger, supposing that means fat and greasy.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 25, 2009, 7:46am (report abuse)Just added this bill to Facebook. In touch last night with the American legion and VFW .. we should be getting some new interest here soon! Working on a petition to circulate - Local American Legion interested in supporting the circulation as is our VFW - my guess is we will collect thousands of signatures (assuming the "snakes" I "cohabit" with can write) ... see what I meant when I said these places degrade over time.. look at what has happened here. ::laffin:: Not to be distracted by ignorant antagonists, I am spurred on by a renewed conviction to prove that a "fat and greasy" public servant can and will make a difference with this bill - and I thank the local list morons for the encouragement!!
Vet2Fed
September 25, 2009, 9:10am (report abuse)Thank you StefaniesDad for reinvigorating this issue. I too have contacted my representative. She too is reviewing the bill - admittedly getting to this point has taken multiple contacts and visits - but it is well worth the effort.
I urge all others to do the same - continue to contact your representatives and convince them to support this bill.
!!!
September 25, 2009, 10:43am (report abuse)As if Porky the Pig could ever make anything happen. Far too many doughnuts and cheeseburgers.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 25, 2009, 11:58am (report abuse)Your welcome 'Vet' - and thanx for your service too.
Maybe we can steer this back to arguing the issues and get away from the personal attacks - seems there are more important things to accomplish then smacking the opposition around. Maybe they have a basis for sound arguments other than to play out what appears to be latent hatreds for disabled veterans. (although admittedly it is good sport to kick the 'naysayers' ass a bit at times .. and to get ours booted as well sometimes).
Let me ask this of the posters here ..
What is the impact of allowing disabled veterans access to military facilities? What impact? Not whether we are entitled or not..
Simply what impact does it have? Increased taxes? Economic impacts on local economies? Benefits to welfare and moral of veterans? Negative impacts on retirees? Unfair? Lets kick the issues around for awhile instead of each other. we can always come back to that later ::grin::
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 25, 2009, 2:12pm (report abuse)PS:
Hopefully Congressman Redonovich and Vet2Fed's Congresswoman will join this list.. call or write your reps today! Lets make this happen!
As of today there are 11 co-sponsors to this bill by Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5] (introduced 3/31/2009)as follows:
Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] - 6/23/2009
Rep Capuano, Michael E. [MA-8] - 7/23/2009
Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] - 3/31/2009
Rep Latta, Robert E. [OH-5] - 3/31/2009
Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] - 3/31/2009
Rep Marchant, Kenny [TX-24] - 5/13/2009
Rep McCotter, Thaddeus G. [MI-11] -6/4/2009
Rep McMorris Rodgers, Cathy [WA-5] - 3/31/2009
Rep Miller, Candice S. [MI-10] - 3/31/2009
Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] - 3/31/2009
Rep Rohrabacher, Dana [CA-46] - 3/31/2009
Thanx,
Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 25, 2009, 4:32pm (report abuse)PSS: It's not "Porky the Pig" it's "Porky Pig" ... kinda like "Smokey Bear" not "Smokey the Bear" .. if yer gonna 'dis' me, do it right ::smile::
Thanx,
Dave
IMISSIT
September 25, 2009, 6:45pm (report abuse)If anyone can ever get through to Brian Baird (D-Dem) let me know.
IMISSIT
September 25, 2009, 6:46pm (report abuse)Should read--If anyone can ever get through to Brian Baird (D-WA) let me know.
!!!
September 25, 2009, 10:02pm (report abuse)No, no. You misunderstand. I was not referencing the cartoon character. I was referencing the corpulant police officer.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 26, 2009, 9:59am (report abuse)IMISSIT -
Try Congressman Baird's press secretary Garrett Russo at: 360-352-9768
Let Russo know you represent other vets in your area who want this bill co-sponsored by Baird so you can use the facilities at Ft Lewis and help boost the economy there.
Lets keep it going!
Thanx for your service!!!
!!!
September 26, 2009, 3:08pm (report abuse)Yeah, go ahead and tell them a lie. You may represent yourself but unless and until you have the ok from other vets you are lying if you say you represent them.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 26, 2009, 11:47pm (report abuse)IMISSIT -
In fact, drop by your local American Legion or VFW and talk it up - have them call as well.. See how the opposition does have great ideas to help us.. Know this for sure - THEY call and play the bill down - we need to keep doing what we do best - SUPPORT OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN ARMS!!
~Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 28, 2009, 2:35pm (report abuse)Here is some contact info for the Democrats on the House Subcommittee on Military Personnel - Call and/or email with your supporting comments!
Susan Davis (D-CA) [Chairwoman] 202-225-2040 http://www.house.gov/susandavis
Vic Snyder (D-AR) 202-225-2506 http://www.house.gov/snyder
Loretta Sanchez (D-CA) 202-225-2965 http://www.lorettasanchez.house.gov
Madeleine Bordallo (D-GU) 202-225-1188 http://www.house.gov/bordallo
Patrick J. Murphy (D-PA) 202-225-4276 http://www.patrickmurphy.house.gov
Hank Johnson (D-GA) 202-225-1605 http://hankjohnson.house.gov
Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) 202-225-5456
Dave Loebsack (D-IA) 202-225-6576 http://loebsack.house.gov
Niki Tsongas (D-MA) 202-225-3411 http://tsongas.house.gov
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 28, 2009, 2:39pm (report abuse)Here is some contact info for the Republicans on the House Subcommittee on Military Personnel - Call and/or email with your supporting comments!
Joe Wilson (R-SC) [Ranking Member] 202-225-2452
http://www.house.gov/formwilson
Walter B. Jones, Jr. (R-NC) 202-225-3415
http://jones.house.gov
John Kline (R-MN) 202-225-2271
http://kline.house.gov
Tom Rooney (R-FL) 202-225-5792
http://rooney.house.gov
Mary Fallin (R-OK) 202-225-2132
http://fallin.house.gov
John Fleming (R-LA) 202-225-2777
http://fleming.house.gov
Vet2Fed
September 29, 2009, 2:19pm (report abuse)...The rest:
Del. Madeleine Bordallo [D-GU] 202-226-0341
madeleine.bordallo@mail.house.gov
Rep. Carol Shea-Porter [D-NH] 202-225-5822
cshea-porter@mail.house.gov
Rep. David Loebsack [D-IA] 202-225-1984
dave.loebsack@mail.house.gov
Rep. Henry "Hank" Johnson [D-GA] 202-225-4975
hank.johnson@mail.house.gov
Rep. Loretta Sanchez [D-CA] 202-225-5859
loretta@mail.house.gov
Rep. Niki Tsongas [D-MA] 202-226-0771
askniki@mail.house.gov
Rep. Patrick Murphy [D-PA] 202-225-9511
patrick.murphy@mail.house.gov
Rep. Susan Davis [D-CA] 202-225-2948
susan.davis@mail.house.gov
Rep. Victor Snyder [D-AR] 202-225-5903
snyder.congress@mail.house.gov
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) September 29, 2009, 3:06pm (report abuse)Thanx V2F!!
~Dave
Walt Tet Vet
September 29, 2009, 6:37pm (report abuse)First let me say this bill has been kicking around since 2004, or earlier,so it will be lost again,I email Obama all the time about this! Please do not answer the idiots on here, that just encourages them, they have never seen war or what it can do to a person!They are the problem not the answer! Ignorance is bliss, and they sure are a blissful bunch of tree hugging pacifists!
...
September 29, 2009, 7:12pm (report abuse)And now we have heard from the "less than intelligent" section. Oh wait, how can you tell one from the other?
Diana
September 30, 2009, 5:19pm (report abuse)I think this bill should pass because I can really save money at the commissary and I miss the way they run things. Why shouldn't Vets be able to use the commissary? Wouldn't it help all around? Why do people not want vets to?
Ralph Kolb
September 30, 2009, 10:09pm (report abuse)Dianna,
I think you will find that if you have to drive very far to get to a commissary you won't be saving anything. It is unfortunate but careful shoppers can do about as well on the local economy anymore. And the exchange is more expensive that any major store downtown.
Red Blooded American
September 30, 2009, 11:40pm (report abuse)What is the problem with extending the privilege to Service Connected Disabled Vets and their dependants? If an employee is hurt on the job and cannot continue working, she is let go, perhaps with a severance package, and many times, begins receiving Social Security Benefits, or some form of pay, maybe from LNI or from the former employer. What difference would it make, if that former employee and their dependants was permitted to shop at exclusive stores of that company to which she had worked, and was injured on the job for? Wouldn't that company which had to let go of that valuable employee WANT to keep doing business with her? So, why is it even a the triflest of issues that CONGRESS must decide, if an injured service member can or cannot shop at a PX? I swear, common sense is not only dead, it is persecuted when it is found!
Pass the bill! Its only going to help raise the standard of living for these vets, and, its going to bring in more funds into the PX/ MWR funds-just Vote YES
...
October 1, 2009, 1:07am (report abuse)Red Blooded American,
If you think the exchange system will get more customers you haven't been in one to look at prices lately. Anyone who can add 1 plus 1 will see that the prices are higher in the exchange stores than any of the large consumer stores in town.
You are the prime example of common sense being dead.
H.O. Blankenship
October 2, 2009, 8:27am (report abuse)I feel that this is long over due and I hope that it is passed. We need to honor out vets and this would help a lot who have economic difficulties. It would also bring revenue to the MWR.
...
October 2, 2009, 9:52am (report abuse)H.O. Blankenship,
Apparently you can't read. There are no savings to be had at the exchange. And if there are no savings, none of these so-called needy vets will be shopping there. So just how will MWR gain revenue?
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 4, 2009, 7:35am (report abuse)So to show what an empty statement "..." just made (again) I went to the PX at Ft Ord with an ID card holder to look around. Sure enough, prices were about ten percent less then on the "outside" but the real savings came at the register when there were NO STATE SALES TAXES applied to the purchase. (about .08 cents on the dollar here) - His purchase was a flat screen TV - cost about $500.00 (savings on same TV at Best Buy was the $40.00 in sales tax plus the price difference of about $50.00) In my book $90.00 is a good savings on one middle of the road TV.
Lets get this bill passed!
~Dave
...
October 6, 2009, 1:13am (report abuse)BULLS**T. Plain and simple. You can make up as much crap as you want. It is still the same smelly stuff you have been [vulgarity].
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 6, 2009, 8:03am (report abuse)ohhh my. Someone doesn't like the truth .. go figure. Facts are what facts are - I have scanned copies of the PX receipt for the TV, includes brand name and model - anyone wanting to verify my facts can email me at Stefanies_dad (at) yahoo (dot) com. I'll prove what I say is true.
Vet2Fed
October 6, 2009, 2:09pm (report abuse)Injecting doubt is a common way to effectively filibuster a bill - this happens in congress all the time. Basically someone who doesn't want a bill to pass will throw out some questionably factual information e.g. "there are no cost savings at the PX" then when that is disproven, they will redirect towards another questionable statement e.g."It will drive local commerce out of business" and when that is then disproven, they'll give another. The end result is placing just enough doubt to stall the bill, effectively killing it. We must be steadfast in our resolve. This bill will eventually pass because IT JUST MAKES GOOD SENSE. It is a no/low cost benefit to disabled veterans that will pay dividends far into the future.
Honorably Discharged
October 6, 2009, 8:46pm (report abuse)I was put out of the military after ten years of service due to a non-combat neurological condition which was rated as 20% at the time I was release from service. I fought like hell to stay in, but was not allowed. Due to the low rating at the time of discharge, I did not qualify for retirement. The condition is now rated at 50%. I am not a deadbeat. I have two Master's degree. I make a good living. That being said, for several years after my discharge, I could not stand to go by the PX in my home town. It hurt to much for me to think about what I lost; to see the soldiers and sailors in a uniform that I would never be allowed to wear again; to know I could never enter the px again unless it was a a guest. I am ok with it now, but if this benefit had been in place at the time of my discharge, it would have helped me during the adjustment/transition phase. I believe from a psychological stand point it could help many others as they adjust/transition to civilian life as well.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 7, 2009, 6:24pm (report abuse)Unlike commissaries which must sell products at their cost (no-profit), Post/Base or Naval exchanges may make a profit and often do on products. The cash register savings comes in the form of lower prices (in many cases) AND not having to pay state sales taxes on goods purchased. In addition, many exchanges like the PX at Ft Ord, California for example has a "low price guarantee" - if you find the same product on the "outside" (even if on sale) you can bring the ad in and get the exhange product for the same price.. In my view this bill will assist service disabled veterans and their dependents make informed purchases, factoring in travel distance, price of product and sales tax savings.. this will be a "no brainer" to pass.
"Thanx for your service and welcome home"
~Dave
"Life is hard. It's harder if your stupid" - John Wayne (SGT Stryker) in the "Sands of Iwo Jima"
...
October 7, 2009, 9:31pm (report abuse)The bill has no chance of being passed. Far too many people are already fed up with the "me, me, me" cries from the veterans. Too many folks are hard up and if it doesn't benefit them they are going to say NO. That translates to lack of support from congress and another dead bill. Good riddance.
Phil T
October 8, 2009, 8:44am (report abuse)I'm retired from the Air Force and already uave access, so I don't really have a dog in this fight. But I do have a couple of things to say.
For me it is a 175 mile roundtrip to the nearest exchange/commissary. My wife and I go infrequently just because it is at least a six hour deal just to go to the commissary. And heaven forbid you happen to be there on a busy day. That adds at least another hour. And we don't shop in the exchange at all. Just not worth it to us.
I wonder how many who might benefit from this bill would even go, given that many will be in a similar situation, distance and time wise. Counting gas, food, and some value for the time spent, the small savings in the stores are not really worth it to me. Everything we want to buy is available within 10 minutes of our house with prices very close, and often better than the commissary.
And commissaries don't actually sell at "their cost." It is cost plus a six percent surcharge for construction and maintenance.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 8, 2009, 3:01pm (report abuse)Phil makes a good point.. if/when the post facilities are too far away then there is a travel consideration.. and he is right regarding the surcharge.. these are things to consider - I think the point is I would like to have the choice. Like Phil, we live a hundred miles away from the nearest PX/Commissary - but I do go to Monterey often and would like to shop there when I visit or in other areas while on vacation. Many other benefits come with PX access - travel, barber, garden shop and others.. not to mention online AFEES ordering ability - there is alot to consider.
Thanx for a well thought out post Phil and thanx for your service.
~Dave
Blazerman
October 9, 2009, 2:53am (report abuse)If you are not 100% Service Connected, P&T, Then you Should not be allowed to Shop on the Bases.
Christa
October 9, 2009, 4:46pm (report abuse)There is really no way to tell how many veterans would take advantage of the shopping if available. But for those of us that live a short distance from a few installations it is another option, and in some cases the best option. Don't tell me there is no savings. I saw it when I was still able to shop on post just a few months ago. Some of us were not able to retire although we were on the right track. Anyone read the Weekly Reader about what is on the House Floor, examples are HR710 Supporting the goals and ideals of "National Estuaries Day" and HR567 Congratulating UC Irvine's men's volleyball team for winning the 2009 national championship. These issues may only benefit a few and may seem trivial and a waste of time to me but they are still worth consideration and the time to someone. I dont understand why this bill has been introduced and always lost in committee and looks to be going that way again.
...
October 10, 2009, 10:36am (report abuse)I gotta agree with Blazerman. If you are not already authorized because of retirement then the only way you should be allowed is by being 100%, service connected, permanent and total, disabled.
For Christa
October 10, 2009, 8:34pm (report abuse)So just what are you trying to say with your ramble above? If you are not happy then vote them out next time.
satdog
October 21, 2009, 10:22am (report abuse)So Blazerman, what you are trying to say is if I served my country and actually fought in a war and am only 20% disabled that I don't deserve to shop at my px or commissary? You must be a punk ass kid currently serving that has no honor or respect for your elders that fought in a real war!
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 21, 2009, 4:52pm (report abuse)For those of us who know, any percentage level of a permanent disability is a heavy price to pay .. Think about it. The previous post refers to a "20% disability" - That's one fifth of ones ability to function - gone.. forvever. Disabled Veterans paid the price willingly while serving with honor, dignity and integrity. All we are suggesting is that this bill proports to help us a little and further underscores the Presidents promise to support Veterans of this countries Armed Services. I ask humbly and simply - what is wrong with the concept of extending a helping hand to our veterans?
"ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL"
SUPPORT THIS BILL - SUPPORT OUR VETS!
~Dave
Vet2Fed
October 23, 2009, 8:24am (report abuse)Adding to Dave's comment, Passage of this bill will not only give well deserved recognition to disabled veteran's for their sacrifice, but it will also encourage those disabled Vets to apply for DoD civilian jobs, filling a shrinking federal workforce with people who understand the military ethos. It will reduce the chance that veterans end up homeless and become a drain on taxpayer resources (this haapens far too often). It will reduce the instance of veteran suicides, helping to ease the transition of wounded soldiers back into civilian life (again, this happens far too often!) It will bolster the MWR fund, providing more benefit to soldiers and their families. Lets face it, this is a win-win proposal. Please contact your representatives and ask them to support this bill!
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 23, 2009, 3:53pm (report abuse)I am amazed at how many veterans don't know about this bill.. I talk it up when I get a chance. I recently came up with this idea for veterans day (November 11th).
I am going to take out an ad in the local newspapers. The cost is under $20.00 per ad. The ad will be short and to the point informing and addressing local veterans and encouraging them to contact their representatives to garner support for the bill.
The ad will read as follows:
********************
ATTENTION ALL DISABLED VETERANS FROM ALL BRANCHES OF SERVICE!
A bill is once again in Congress which proposes to give you full access to shop in military AAFES and Commissary services just like when you were on active or reserve duty.
H.R. 1818 - The Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act needs your support to pass.
- CALL YOUR LOCAL U.S. REPRESENTATIVES IN THIER WASHINGTON OR LOCAL OFFICE TODAY -
SUPPORT THIS BILL ! - SUPPORT ALL VETS!
********************
~Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 23, 2009, 3:55pm (report abuse):: continuied: If some (or all) of us do this, we can really spread the word about the bill and maybe in this way contribute to it's ultimate success.
(PS: I'l be sure to spell check and capitalize "Veteran's Day" when I place the ads.. ::smile::
Be well all!
SUPPORT OUR VETERANS FROM ALL BRANCHES OF SERVICE!!
~Dave
RPK
October 24, 2009, 12:39am (report abuse)I see at least one fallacy in the argument above. The 20% disability rating from the VA really does not equate to one fifth of ones ability to function. If that were true don't you think it would be a higher payout?
Now, I have a serious question.
At what point will vets have received enough as compensation for their service? Look at all the bills on this site that are about giving veterans more and more. It appears that there is no end. I just wonder when it will be enough. After everyone else is in the poorhouse? After everyone else has given up everything they have so the veterans can have everything they want?
If you think this is harsh you may be out of touch with what is really happening out here. People are starting to get tired of the push for more and more when they are seeing less and less for themselves and their families.
Perhaps it is time to step back and take a long hard look at the realities of life as a citizen of this country.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 24, 2009, 10:06pm (report abuse)RPK says in part: "Perhaps it is time to step back and take a long hard look at the realities of life as a citizen of this country"
Here is the reality RPK - many of these folks fought or served in peacetime and were severely wounded or injured for being good, law abiding citizens of this country.. where is the harm in saying thanx once again with an additional benefit - how long has it been since we all stood up and said "thank you" to our vets.. remember 9/11? The flag waving..? Where did those days go.. right where such times always go.. into the recesses of the mind.. shopping at the PX or commissary isn't a big deal - so I ask.. Why not?
SUPPORT OUR VETS - SUPPORT THIS BILL!
~Dave
RPK
October 25, 2009, 12:41am (report abuse)You are ducking the question. At what point will the veterans say "Thank you, I have enough." to those who are footing the bill?
I work with various groups in this district on a regular basis. Just today I listened to a group of senior citizens telling me they are not in favor of more benefits for veterans. And this was only one of several diverse groups that I have listened to in the past two months with the same message. One gentleman stood up today and said "There is only so much pie to cut up and it seems to me that the veterans want a pretty damn big slice." The applause was loud and long. How do I argue that point with any group when they see the threat of reduced benefits for their particular group and increased benefits for veterans?
At some point the push for more and more will result in a backlash. I worry that will result in a return to the days when veterans really were unappreciated. I think we are well on our way to just such a time.
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 25, 2009, 7:11pm (report abuse)ok.. I see what you are saying.. I guess I missed the question which if I read it corre3ctly is basically "When is enuff, enuff?"
Lets see how this plays - currently Vets who are disabled up to but not including 100% get medical care for their service connected injuries/ailments - monthly checks commensurate with our disabilty percentage .. some education benefits - what else is there? Maybe a discount now and then due to the vet status..
I am almost considered "senior citizen" class .. what if we said something like this.. "ok, seniors get enuff.. no more benefits for seniors - no COLA, no increased Medicare - nothing.. they get enough.. in fact, they can't shop at Safeway anymore because they are now seniors and Safeway is for folks not on Medicare..? Hows that sound? Again, I ask this simple question = what is wrong with disabled Vets using the PX....?
~Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 26, 2009, 7:55am (report abuse)::continued: 100% disabled vets fall into a well deserved different category - they have PX/BX privileges and other enhanced benefits.
So to answer the question "When is enough, enough?" I think the answer is when all of the American people believe their veterans are adequately compensated for their sacrifices and service .. until then - Disabled American Veterans should receive every entitlement and benefit the citizens they we serve will provide for us.
Just one mans opinion, shared by millions..
SUPPORT OUR VETS 11 SUPPORT THIS BILL!!
~Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 26, 2009, 7:58am (report abuse)PS - Disabled veteran compensation increases (COLA) is linked to Social Security Benefit increases (COLA) - when seniors get 0% increase - so do we.. let the seniors know we support them and as always will stand on the front line, where ever that may be, and insure their freedoms and security into old age..
::getting offa my soap box::
~Dave
StefaniesDad
(logged in user) October 26, 2009, 2:16pm (report abuse)A word about increasing MWR - from the Army Times:
"After covering operating expenses, part of exchange earnings support on-base morale, welfare and recreation programs such as swimming pools and arts and crafts centers. For example, in the past 10 years, $2.4 billion has been contributed by AAFES to military MWR programs. Since 1946, over $2.2 billion has been given to MWR to support sailor quality of life."
I wonder how much more money disabled vets could add to the 2.2 BILLION dollars that AAFES thru it's patrons has contributed to the MWR ....?
Of course this is a good bill - it makes sense, doesn't cost anyone anything and does nothing but benefit our veterans.
SUPPORT ALL VETERANS!! SUPPORT THIS BILL!!
~Dave