To the editor:

With Veteran’s Day approaching allow me to highlight that not all veterans are treated equally.

Several articles in recent issues of the Laurinburg Exchange reported on the excellent work the VA does for our veterans. I do not deny this fact and appreciate what is done for the ones who risk their life daily to keep our country free and safe. There is not enough we can do for these brave men and woman. I only like to bring to the public’s attention to the fact there are veterans who served their country but aren’t eligible for VA benefits of any kind? These are the forgotten vets. They feel as if they did not do their part despite that they spent time on foreign soil, away from their families serving their country. This means nothing because they are not found worthy for VA eligibility. The reason for denying VA eligibility to this group of veterans is, because enrollment restrictions were passed effective January 17, 2003 based on income. Any vet with a combined income above $32,000 does not need to apply.

Contacting your congressman or representative will be futile. It is sad that such rules exist and not all who served receive equal treatment. They are the forgotten and second class veterans.

Horst Hanak

Laurinburg