Apr 18, 2018 2 min read

Stop bragging about veterans status

I am a U.S. Army combat veteran, having served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969, and was discharged as a staff sergeant, E-6. I assume everyone will believe me – at least, it appears so!

Veterans status seems to be the new criteria for truth in political campaigns as of late. I can recall that about 10 to 15 years ago, it seemed like every candidate for political office listed their involvement and membership in a church, parish or congregation and their family involvement as being oh-so-important to being elected. Move over religious affiliation. The new imprimatur and seal of approval is military service for a candidate’s success (with the exception of the commander-in-chief, who unashamedly accepted an unearned Purple Heart and has several deferments due to occasional foot spurs).

Let’s stop bragging about our military service and remember we simply did our duty. Let we veterans serve humbly and not use or abuse our military background as an advertisement. I, for one, am not influenced by anyone’s military background, as I was not impressed by anyone’s religious affiliation in the past. Just tell me what you promise to do for us once elected.

Rev. Joseph S. Lewandowski (retired)

Washington