VETERANS CORNER: VA not Halloween friendly this year

Veterans Administration facility at Togus. (Internet photo)

by Gary Kennedy

Well, Halloween has come and gone. Julie and I went to a friend’s house to share with them and to see all the adorable children in their costumes. Our friends give the Cadillac of candies and the children are aware of that. We are always assured of family and friends, which is another plus. We share a great meal which we all participate in its preparation. So for us it is just another time for bonding.

V.A. wasn’t as friendly as they were in years past. It use to be all the check in points had candy and some of the employees even dressed down for the occasion. It was joyful in the old days. It seems the spirit has been knocked out of yesterday’s humanity. Things have changed and the vets and their families can feel it. Now we can only reminisce. Perhaps some management will come along that will instill some of what use to be normal. I for one have a very large soft spot for V.A. Togus as it has been in the center of my life for many years. I have enjoyed a tremendous amount of good fortune for myself, family and veterans in need. There are still many wonderful people working there and supporting our veterans. There are also many employees there for just a paycheck. However, even if it’s just a job, if you do it well, all will benefit from you.

I have received several phone calls and emails regarding a supposed mandate on bathroom facilities. It seems we will be going to UNISEX C.R.’s this coming month. This is one of those political things we have been watching lately. Whoever came up with this idea must be anti veteran. Disabled veterans search out family bathrooms because of medical reasons. Usually there are two people involved in bathroom experiences for many veterans. Sometimes a disabled veteran could need 20 minutes to complete his need along with a caregiver. The system we have now has worked fine for many years. If it’s not broken why try and fix it?

When the veteran is using the bathroom, other veterans are on a waiting list. This can become very difficult. Anyway, I told the veteran who emailed me that I would check it out with Boston on the first of the week. We need to see if this is a national mandate and share our opinion along with the obstacles in case this wasn’t thought through. It’s great to find ways to improve the system but sometimes in so doing, the proposed improvement carried baggage with it. These things need to be thought out carefully. I happen to agree with these veterans. If it’s not broken don’t try to fix it. In the past nearly 50 years I have never seen a problem with the comfort rooms. If there are other opinions out there, let’s hear them.

Another problem we have lately is oversight of the area surrounding building 200 to building 205. The construction company doing the work in that area is not considering those around them. They can follow some of the protocol of other employees. They don’t need to park pick-ups on the sidewalk or in handicap spaces. When they have things to unload that is a different story. The one’s I watched didn’t have that problem. We have such limited parking as it is. Some veterans can’t even walk.

I remember asking if it wouldn’t be good to have veterans help with the solutions. When the advocates first came to Building 200, I mentioned that veterans had a lot to offer and perhaps a group of vets could serve as a committee of unofficial oversight. No one knows better than a vet. Also, it could put purpose in some veteran’s lives. Knowing you and your advice is needed is a powerful tool and in some cases could prove to be valuable. Also, it’s a good way to find out what’s driving the other side. It was accepted as a good idea but didn’t go anywhere. If you have any ideas or suggestions please contact me so I can address them with you. When the world is as it is, there will always be veterans. As long as there are veterans there will always be need.

Never forget, my brothers and sisters, we are in this together and we should always stand tall in helping one another. Don’t be afraid to contact us if you are in need. We have each other you don’t have to go it alone. Also, there are several service organizations, V.F.W., American Legion, D.A.V, Maine Vets, to name some. They all have V.S.O.’s (Veterans Service Officers) to advise you and steer you in the correct direction. Last but certainly not least, you have Veterans Benefits Administration (V.B.A.) they are equipped with V.A.’s finest. It’s best if you call first but they do allow walk-ins. They are there from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday- Friday.

Our COLA adjustment which is the same as Social Security 2.5 percent. Example: Multiply the amount you are receiving currently by 2.5 and add the result to your check. This is all we have time for this week. God bless you and yours. Have a great and safe weekend.