Got a direct call from our IL Congressman today

[Boats]

What a shock. Called my house then my work place. Seems my email sent to Washington regarding the latest issues relating to the VA benefits being cut back hit a sore spot.

Obama was polite and said he would look very hard at getting our issues resolved. He asked me not to send any more emails to Washington. I asked why? It seems this email circulated all over the capital and he was asked to call me and get this resolved.

Unfortunately I didn't make a copy of the email I sent him but it hit some real sore spots up North. Talked to me for 15 minutes and I was a polite and just told him what I felt were the concerns of all of us.

I mentioned we were very tired of the disrespect we get as veterans and those who are in need - are looking for support. I'm not handicapted but I know many who are. I said this issue was not sitting well with the IL and IN vets and that we are not gong to sit around and allow this to take place.

I said the last thing this government needs is for us Vets to show up in Washington like they did during WWI - you ask us to cover our national interest but yet when we are back you turn your backs on us.

We are tired of the special interest groups who buy off our congressman for issues that don't relate to our countries best interest. We are tired of seeing our laundry in government being discussed on the media every night.

I told them they would have to clean up their acts or a revolution could be in the making. Take care of our own and make sure our people can eat and be educated. If not we will show up and the world will see such an event that they won't soon forget.

That's about the best estimate of what I sent on my email plus we talked about Iraq and how we don't want to see a cut and run take place. I said you got us into this mess lets get out with a honorable and face saving manor. Support our troops that you sent in and give them what they need to do their job.

This is the first time I put something in writing to any government official and I'm sure I said more than I said above. You guys keep asking for us to let our officials know well hey I made a small ripple in the system I guess. I only wish I had HC's grammatical writing skils I'm sure it would have made a bigger dent.

In closing he asked me not to send any more of these through the Washington channels - rather go direct to his IL or Chicago office. Hmmmmmmm I wonder why.

Gotta run

[SuperScout]

Good for you, Boats! You are an example of democracy in action, and I salute your efforts. Keep up the good work.

[catman]

Boats...I owe you a drink or ten! Thanks for fighting for us!

Trav

[Gimpy]

you Boats, from the bottom of my heart.

You are a fine example of how the "system" should work!

If more and more "vets" would take the time and expend the effort to do what you have done, maybe this 'stuff' would get better for all of us.

Once again, my deepest gratitude to you.

[Arrow]

Awesome Boats! Thank you Sir!

[Jerry D]

Good Job Boats thanks from all of us

[Bill Farnie]

Other then a job well done on your part and maybe ruffling some feathers with your talk of a Vets revolution, do you think anyone in Washington gives a rats ass?

[MORTARDUDE]

Boats :

I think this episode is a bit odd, to say the least. Email or PM me and we can discuss it further. Thanks.

Larry

[David]

Great job Boats! If you use outlook check the "sent items" box, you may have a copy of that email in there.

[BLUEHAWK]

Good job, Boats.

That has gotta be a first, at least almost.