What are everyone's thoughts on this...? http://www.newsday.com/opinion/oped/let-s-not-place-our-soldiers-on-a-pedestal-1.10083342

2015-03-23T11:17:44-04:00

Thoughts on this article? I am all for getting a Vet discount but don't normally seek it out either, but I am confused about where the author stands...I also know he is on RP, so I hope he responds as well.

Let's not place our soldiers on a pedestal

There is a sense among the active and retired military communities that they should be catered to because of their service. That's dangerous.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2015 11:25 AM

2015-03-23T11:25:06-04:00

I understand and do not expect to be treated as a hero or to get discounts at any business, ever. But when I hear this comment about a pedestal I become immediately concerned and a little put-off and I do not think I am better than anyone. Whomever feels the need to do that is off-base and self-centered but it is also a bit strange especially coming from a veteran.

Poo-pooing the Vietnam-Era is a big red flag for me and not for me so much, as those who died and their families and for the veterans abused in the media, by politicians and those who generally hate the Military Industrial Complex.

Response by SGT Robert R. made Mar 24 at 2015 6:31 AM

2015-03-24T06:31:57-04:00

I can agree with most of the LTC's comments. "Respect by association"? The wife may be on to something, but the way she handled it was extremely wrong. I don't seek a discount and thank anyone who offers one.

His point about hiring a vet is off though. Our numbers look good when you look at them holistically. However, when you look at the demographics you see that the Iraq/Afghanistan era and the Vietnam and Korean War veterans unemployment is disproportionately higher than the national average. This is a factor in the suicide rate, IMO, and we do NOT need to let up on "hiring a vet" programs.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2015 6:44 AM

2015-03-24T06:44:11-04:00

This is a Rally Point member who posted this in a thread previously. I disagree because those who make the sacrifice should be recognized (in terms of Veterans preference). It is the Veterans who work at the VA (as well as my husband) who inspired me to join. They serve other Veterans well because they relate to them, recognize the service and sacrifice. It is totally different to swear an oath to go anywhere in the world you are needed, to leave your family at a moment's notice for months at a time, than to take a similar civilian job where you can at anytime, give two weeks notice and move on.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Mar 24 at 2015 6:45 AM

2015-03-24T06:45:40-04:00

Clearly that woman was the last straw on the camel's back for him. I never seek a veterans discount and if offered I normally decline it. I gained a lot more from my years in the service than I gave so I don't feel like I need discounts to help me out. I am not saying there is anything wrong with taking them.

I am not sure how that instance gets him all the way to the military being on a pedestal but to each his own. This isn't so much an editorial as it is a rant of someone pushed to the edge over a pretty insignificant issue.

I think the military is a unique in our society. The mission, the manner in which it must be done, the fact that it is all voluntary, the pay isn't great and many other reasons.