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Proposed Tricare Cuts Could Cause Problems For Military Families and Retirees
January 7, 2009
It’s pretty much a given fact that the men and women serving in our country’s Armed Forces aren’t paid a whole lot. A large majority of them are living paycheck to paycheck, barely getting by. Many of our Veterans are in the same position, some even worse off, as evidenced by the numbers of homeless veterans in our country. When I read about this particular proposal to cut Tricare benefits for Military Families and Veterans I was none too happy.
A recent report from the Congressional Budget Office details just one proposal that would increase out of pocket expenses for medical care for Military Families and Veterans, while others would lose their VA benefits altogether. Other proposals would raise Tricare fees, co-payments and deductibles. Veterans whose medical condition isn’t service related could end up no longer being eligible for VA medical care at all. While nothing has been approved at this juncture, the Congressional Budget Office director at this time is President-elect Obama’s choice to be his director of the Office of Management and Budget, and who led the work on this proposal, Peter R. Orszag, so it very possibly will have a very real, very devastating affect on our Troops and our Veterans.
“We are going to go through our federal budget, as I promised during the campaign, page by page, line by line, eliminating those programs we don’t need and insisting that those that we do need operate in a sensible, cost-effective way,” Obama said in November as he announced Orszag’s nomination to join his cabinet .
“We’re also going to focus on one of the biggest, long-run challenges that our budget faces, namely the rising cost of health care in both the public and private sectors,” Obama continued. “This is not just a challenge but also an opportunity to improve the health care that Americans rely on, and to bring down the costs that taxpayers, businesses and families have to pay. That is what [OMB] will do in my administration.”
Obama added, “Peter doesn’t need a map to tell him where the bodies are buried in the federal budget. He knows what works and what doesn’t, what’s worth our precious tax dollars and what is not.”1
If you care to read the report for yourself, which details these proposals, as well as others, you can do so by following this link to the Congressional Budget Office’s website. I’ll summarize some of the proposed increases and changes and how they can and WILL affect our Military Families and our Veterans.
TRICARE for Working-Age Retirees – Fees, co-payments and deductibles would be raised for retirees under 62 to restore the relative costs paid when TRICARE began in 1995. TRICARE Prime enrollment would be raised to $550 a year for individuals from $230. Retiree families would pay $1100 versus $460 today. Co-pays for doctor visits would climb to $28 from $12 and users of TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra would pay an annual deductible of $350 for an individual and $700 for families. Congress has declined to support such increases for the past three years.
Fees for Active Duty Families – Dependents of active duty members enrolled in TRICARE Prime, the managed care network, would pay new fees equal to 10 percent of the cost of health services obtained either in military treatment facilities or through civilian network providers. Total out of pocket costs would be capped, however.
To help offset these costs, dependents would receive a $500 non-taxable allowance annually. Those who elect to use alternative health insurance, rather than TRICARE, could apply the $500 toward their health insurance premiums, co-payments or deductibles.
CBO estimates these fees would save $7 billion over 10 years and encourage Prime enrollees to “use medical services prudently.” It also would entice more spouses to enroll in employer-provided health plans instead of TRICARE. The downside, CBO said, would be financial difficulties for some Prime enrollees despite the cap on out-of-pocket costs. Also, CBO said, spouses induced to rely on employer health plans could see health coverage interrupted during military assignment relocations.
TRICARE-For-Life Fees – The military’s health insurance supplement to Medicare could see higher user costs. Under this option, beneficiaries would pay the first $525 of yearly medical costs plus one half of the next $4725 of costs charged to Medicare. So the extra out-of-pocket cost for TFL users would be up to $2887.50 a year. This amount would be indexed to rise with Medicare costs. The change would save $40 billion over 10 years. But CBO said it also could discourage some patients from seeking preventive care or proper management of chronic conditions. So it could negatively affect some patients’ health.
Tighten VA Enrollment – The VA healthcare system would be directed to disenroll 2.3 million Priority Groups 7 and 8 — individuals who are not poor and have no service-related medical needs. Estimated savings would be $53 billion over 10 years but Medicare spending would rise by $26 billion in the same period as elderly among these vets shifted to Medicare.
CBO said 90 percent of these vets have other health care coverage. But this change could leave up to 10 percent unable to find affordable care.2
When I read this, needless to say it angered me. Our Servicemembers and our Veterans have given so much to our country, did our country’s bidding, often at the expense of their families and often at the expense of their health. Our Servicemembers and Veterans deserve much better treatment from our country than this. Right now, this changes have not been implemented, so there’s still time to contact your elected officials and let them know how you feel about this. Military.com has a letter that you can use to send to your elected officials and let them know how you feel about this. Please do so. You can find this letter by following this link.
Our Troops, their Families and our Veterans deserve much better than this. They deserve our appreciation and our gratitude. Increasing the cost of healthcare benefits that they’ve worked so hard for is NOT the way to do so. My thoughts are that perhaps Congress should look at cutting some of the benefits and perks that they vote for themselves, instead of benefits for our Troops. Afterall, they are public servants as well and their healthcare costs, wages and benefits if cut could save our country a considerable amount of money.
- http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,182097,00.html [↩]
- http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,182097,00.html [↩]
Comments
235 Responses to “Proposed Tricare Cuts Could Cause Problems For Military Families and Retirees”
This is so wrong! We have a few patients who are “covered” by Tricare and they are paying enough as it is. They are families with children and are just barely making ends meet. I am praying that this does not happen. They deserve much better.
We the people just gave BILLIONS to failed companies with no regulation whatsoever and now we are asking our retired military personnel to pay more for what should be, and what was promised to be, free health care for life:
I quote from a suggestion from OMB to President Elect Obama regarding military retired health care: ” TRICARE for Working-Age Retirees – Fees, co-payments and deductibles would be raised for retirees under 62 to restore the relative costs paid when TRICARE began in 1995. TRICARE Prime enrollment would be raised to $550 a year for individuals from $230. Retiree families would pay $1100 versus $460 today. Co-pays for doctor visits would climb to $28 from $12 and users of TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra would pay an annual deductible of $350 for an individual and $700 for families. Congress has declined to support such increases for the past three years.”
Below please see my comments to President Obama regarding OMB’s proposal:
Untold BILLIONS for bailing out banks and car companies who basically failed and AN INCREASE FOR MILITARY RETIRED PEOPLE TO PAY FOR THE EXPENSIVE MEDICAL CARE? WHAT? I voted for President Obama. I am a military retiree. All the people I served with believed, because they had been told exactly that, that they would receive health care for free for life in military health care facilities, when they retired.
I know, I know- there have been court cases all the way to the Supreme Court and the promise that was made to the service members was broken by the government we served and risked our lives for; it was decided that, no, we had not been promised health care for life. That is a lie, we were promised exactly that.
And if by some tomfoolery it can be proven that our impression was not backed up by any documents to prove that this promise had been made, so what, it should have been made, it should be made. The military retired absolutely deserve free health coverage for life, not a fee increase.
A fee increase makes the military retiree’s medical expense move closer to what civilians pay. A broken promise is a broken promise. Dishonoring 20 or more years of military service is a sin. All of us served in the military the best years of our lives to protect the country we loved and love. And now we get this slap in the face, billions for failed businesses and a fee increase for the military retired? Does that last sentence sit well with you?
It is not a budgetary matter. It is a matter of a government keeping its promise. It is a matter of a government REALLY showing that it honors its military retired population. You can not stop the rockets and mortars and bullets and grenades and put them on rewind and make them not have fallen and exploded and whizzed by our military retired. You can not put on pause and rewind all of the arduous duty military people have served on ships, on land and in the air.
But you can put on pause the PROMISE the government made to all of us that for our sacrifices, that we have already made, we would deserve free medical care for life? Please put your actions where your mouth has been. President Obama I have seen that you work out at the Marine gym, that you hold babies of service members and pose for photos for them, I have heard all of your flowery speech about how much you appreciate the military— so show us by making health care free for life for all military retired who have served this country.
It turns my stomach how in the same breath these two things can be discussed: charging military retired people more money for health care that had been promised for free, for life and: giving away billions to companies in a free market economy that have failed .
Paying whatever the bill is for military retiree health care, and whatever it becomes, is not a budgetary matter, it is a matter of honor. The budget for medical care for military retired personnel should be removed from the overall DOD budget. The budget for military retired free health care should be separate and whatever it costs should be paid.
People who spent 20 years or more in the military put their lives on the line for those 20 or more years so that civilian citizens could have freedom. We put our lives on the line. No one can be asked to offer more than that. We earned and deserve absolutely free health care for life, we should not have to pay one penny for co-pay, for whatever administrative fee the office of budget calls by whatever jargon it invents; MILITARY RETIRED HEALTH CARE SHOULD BE TOTALLY FREE.
And there should be no age discrimination; younger retirees have to pay more, no sir, all people who serve 20 years or more should have absolutely free medical care. That is the least an appreciative government can do.
An Open Letter TO: President-elect Obama
SUBJECT: Military Healthcare Benefits
Desperate times demand desperate measures.
In terms of the budgetary, financial and recessionary crisis facing our country, desperate measures are indeed called for, however, as former President Bill Cinton once said “Caring for those who served our country so heroically is not a policy option or a partisan program. It is a national tradition and a national responsibility. We know what we owe them. We must and we will fulfill that promise.”
Many politicians, both republican and democrat, have expressed a similar sentiment over the past serveral decades, as they watched and participated in the erosion of military health care benefits– including Senator Max Cleland, who said, our country has “…incurred a moral obligation to attempt to provide health care to military retirees who believed they were promised life-time healthcare in exchange for a lifetime of military service.”
Former Air Force Surgeon General, Lt.Gen. Edgar R. Anderson, Jr., USAF (Ret.), said “Healthcare for life, [is] perhaps the most treasured benefit and one of the strongest inducements to military service.”
I know that the promise of healthcare for life for me and my wife was one reason I first reenlisted back in the early 1970s. Today, as a retired Air Force chief master sargeant, I cannot overstate the importance of having that promise fulfilled.
I am writing this letter because of a recent (Dec. 31, 2008) article I read posted at Military.com (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,182097,00.html). Under the headline “Vets Eyed For Health Cost Cuts.” The article notes that a new report from the Congressional Budget Office could lead to higher healthcare costs for military retirees and veterans. “Among 115 ‘options’ presented, though not endorsed, in the CBO report, several focus on raising TRICARE out-of-pocket costs for retirees and one for families. Others would tighten access to VA hospitals and clinics, or raise VA health fees, for veterans with no service-connected conditions… Working-age military retirees will find here some of those familiar cost-saving ideas endorsed by the Bush administration to raise TRICARE fees, co-payments and deductibles for retirees under age 62 and their spouses.”
As a working age military retiree, who is no longer working, it is in my self-interest to be extremely concerned about any further erosion of military healthcare benefits and the failure of our country to fulfill its promise of life-time healthcare.
Peter Orszag, the nominee to be director of the Office of Management and Budget, is the CBO director who oversaw the development of the most recent CBO report “Budget Options, Volume 1: Health Care.” I am afraid many of the options in the report will be enacted further eroding our nation’s commitment of lifetime healthcare for military retirees.
You said your administration will have “an opportunity to improve the health care that Americans rely on, and to bring down the costs that taxpayers, businesses and families have to pay. That is what [OMB] will do in my administration.” I hope and pray that when you said families you also meant the families of active duty and retired military members. From my perspective and that of many military retirees, if the options mentioned in the CBO report are adopted, it will mean another broken promise — the promise of lifetime healthcare as a condition of military service.
I know the challenges you face, and we face as a nation, are severe and many. My prayers are with you and your administration and with our country.
May God continue to bless America.
CMSgt. Kim F. Lobring, USAF, (Ret.)
Back in Marchg 1961 when I ernlisted in the US Air Force I was promised that all Air Force retirees would have liftime medical serrvice for self and family. That promise was certainly ter moser decisive reason I re-enlisted in 1965 and 1969. After i reached the Medicare agre all experts claimed that I did not need to supplement my Medicare since I had Tricare for Life. It is totall unfair to promise something and then take it away. If this happens I feels that I was deceived and I certINLY DID NOT THINK THIS WAS PART OF THE “CHANGE” DURING THE LONG CAMPAIGN.
Don Cork,,Capt, USAF (Ret)
What about our medically retired? Our guys who were injured in combat? They no longer have the opportunity to complete 20 years. Sure, there is retired pay and/or VA compensation. But here’s an idea for you… How about making veterans partially responsible for their own health. How about mandating a diet/PT program for those with reversible/improvable conditions like hypertension and sleep apnea? Do these retirees prize good health or money more???
Most times, those conditions I listed above can be minimized with reasonable diet and exercise. You shouldn’t get to eat twinkies and bon-bons during your career, then make the public responsible for your poor health. Too many people are milking the VA system for treatable/preventable conditions.
Now I understand some conditions, like diabetes mellitus, are not “self-induced.” But 9 out of 10 people could improve their hypertension and sleep apnea and other problems with a regular diet and/or exercise program.
I’m a veteran myself, but I don’t care for my taxpayer dollars to subsidize people’s poor health habits (even if they’re retirees), nor do I care to subsidize the health care for those in my country illegally. Call me selfish, but I’d give my every limb to a combat-amputee.
During the campaign President Elect Obama said the “change is coming”; now before the inauguration takes place the first “change” is one which affects the military retired men and women. Why is it the military that is the first to be on
the chopping block. Are there any similar changes for the other federal employees - - like the politicians?
If a cut such as this is across the board; i.e., for ALL FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND ALL POLITICIANS I will withdraw my complaint. Until I read where that is put in place, you will be hearing alot from me.
James T. Karr Captain, U.S.Marine Corps retired
Military Healthcare Fee Increases-
Some would say “Free” healthcare.
Not free- (there is already an enrollment fee- in order to make appointments- plus co-pays and prescription fees)- but earned as part of a deferred compensation/incentive package offered to qualified individuals who were willing to serve or continue to serve in the US Armed Forces.
Offered partly because of the supply and demand problem that has existed for decades- most Americans have no interest in taking on the wear and tear that comes with serving in the Armed Forces, fewer still are interested in investing a spare 20 years in making a career of the military.
We hear many good things about the generation who fought WWII. People lied about their age to serve. There was a draft. Women went in, along with movie stars, entertainers and sports celebrities- the whole country understood and was involved in the war effort. School kids participated. Most people probably had a family member who served or at least knew people who did.
Today, most people do not serve and we are most comfortable with an “All Volunteer” military- until it comes time to pay on promised benefits.
“Support the Troops” is a common slogan and big political parties push and shove to stake out their own reputation for “Supporting the Troops”.
It’s all good for the average American as long as slapping a Communist Chinese Yellow Ribbon magnet on the car means the dues are paid up.
Our “Something for Nothing” culture does not pause to consider a minority of citizens who have gone the extra mile to take risks and- in return- earn benefits.
The military package never was meant to be comparable with civilian benefits.
The demands of the job are not comparable- but- all freely accepted with the understanding that some will be sent to far away places and never come back again- and- that it all counts towards earning a definite benefit package- and not the easy way.
People made decisions and sacrifices in order to serve or continue to serve based on an understanding of the benefits they were fighting for.
Message to parents, young adults, recruiters, educators, veteran’s groups, church groups, flag lapel pin wearers, politicians, football teams with flag stickers on helmets, 911 marketers, and “support the troops” promoters- Teach your children- “bait and switch” tactics are in effect. Know this before considering serving in the Armed Forces.
Alex Hepler USMC ‘79-’99
Port Hadlock, WA
I agree Alex, the retiree healthcare is NOT free, though I feel that all of you who serve or have serve MORE than deserve free healthcare, for going that “extra mile.” Something that most of our fellow Americans have not and will not do in their lifetime. Thank you Alex and James for your service to our country.
These dirty bastards who robed our citizens of all their savings and get a hand out from our Government while the ones who fought for our Country get the shaft. Our medical care that was promised to us Military retirees is going to be the first victom as always. It reminds me of the British Tommy who does everything to win a war and then gets the shaft. We should insist that our so called leaders in Congress and the administration should loose one days pay for 52 days ie once a week and loose their medical insurance and pensions. They should do something for their Country in stead of us poor bastards always doing and giving our blood for what used to be a greatful Nation. For those Wall street crooks there should be the death penalty and it should be immediately and hang the Bastards without appeals include all those people in the Bush and Cheney Cabal who committed treason.
Our active men and women serving in the U.S. military and our retired veterans should not have to bare the brunt of this socialistic Obama Administration during
this recession. They should be given the upmost respect and medical coverage
to compensate for their life threatening positions to protect us.
Our U.S. armed forces unselfishly protect us during their duties overseas and in our home land so therefore we should protect and support them. They deserve
the medical benefits for their courage and devotion they offer to each one of us
Americans everyday.
This goes without saying that our troops, veterans, and their families are entitled
to receive 100% in healthcare benefilts.
Well fellow vets you can see what you get when we elect a socialist for pres.This man dosn’t give a damn about active or retired military.This is just the beganing.When our country is in worse condition then the great deperssion maybe we will wake up.
I for on am sending daily E-mails to my senator and congrsssman. I beg all of you to try and do this everyday,keep their E-Mail full.Once again we are heading ito a socialist enviroment if we aren;t already there.
This ridiculous proposal will do more to eliminate a voluntary armed force than anything. With twenty years of a person’s life spent to protect our great USA then get reduced health care that is taken away from that which is promised will do more harm than can be imagined. Take away the illegal immigrant’s billions and put it where it belongs. Remember this: all of the governmen’ts money came from us, the working citizen’s.
Cloyd Taylor USAF retired senior master sgt
A friend of mine a retired Navy Captain sent me an email telling me about what this new administartion is trying to do and sent me this link and I had to write I have talked to a few friends who are all retired Navy I live in the Norfolk, Va area and none of us are happy about this. Here we have a President Elect who has never served a day in his life and he wants to take something from us that enyone who has served has earned I know none of us are asking for something free we only want what was promised to us if we did our 20 plus years. And if they do what they want to with the active duty personnel and their families he will destroy the military so please get in touch with your senator and your congressman I already have to let them know how I feel
Freddie R. Cano NCC USNRET
[...] paid what a senior NCO or an officer is. You can read the article I wrote about these proposals, by following this link. Obama has also vowed to repeal the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’ policy in the military that was [...]
So we can now send our tax dollars to other countries to promote abortions but we must raise the price of healthcare for the active duty military and the veterans.
How is that right?
This one of the things that scared me about Obama. Never been in the military and knows nothing about it. I retired from the AF in ‘78 and was told in ‘58 when I went in stay in and you got medical the rest of your life. YEP! What a Joke!. I have already sent letters to my Senators and the Congressman. Everybody needs to write. And doing away with the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’ policy, Man I am glad I retired. If the Prez went to the military range and was given an M-16 to shoot Do you think he would ask which end do I put to my shoulder. Oh we could get Sahra to show him.
That is what we get for our votes and our services for our CONNTRY.
I joined the Navy during WWII, served through Korea and most of Vietnam and
was exposed to second hand smoke most of those years as it was everywhere on ships and stations. I was also exposed to the fumes of carbontetrachloride which we used to clean the cosmoline from new guns. As a result I now have emphysema, an incurable pulmonary disease that progressively will get worse.
So now Obama wants to screw us with his ill founded health plan. I was hoping I wouldn’t have to say “I told you so” to my friends who voted for him but if this is what he does in his first month, I wonder what’s next?
By the way, my Dad was a combat infantry officer in WWI and was totally disabled. He and his fellow vet’s were also screwed over big time by the government as regards their benefits. I look for more bad news from this administration before it’s all over, after all, look who Obama has on his staff and cabinet. Grab your ankles ’cause it’s coming.
[...] the Crack Head down the street will receive free medical coverage. Here are some links to article. https://soldiersmind.com/2009/01/07/proposed-tricare-cuts-could-cause-problem s-for-military-families…
Reply - Quote
I’m retired military and if this gets passed I will campaign twenty fours a day in the next election to ensure his adminstration is voted out of office. All you retirees that voted for this man better wake up. he lied to you and he will continue to lie.
That just goes to show what I have believed from the start he is not from this country and has no consept on what it means to be a true american. His grand fathers and father did not fight for USA and he has no reson to believe what we all know to be a fact that we would not be free if it wasn’t for those who fought for use. I would not have 1 problem with them taken extra money from me to pay for someone who fought for me and my family. How ever I have this strang filling that they will take extra money from me to pay for some lazy ass who great ,great, great, great, great, great you get my point parents where a slave and they dont have any rights the believe that we should take care of them. WHAT THE HELL EVER if they stop feeding all of the prisoner who still and kill from the working class people. Stop letting them have steak and sea food in there and start feeding them just enough bread and water to get them by they could save 50 BILLON dollars over a 10 yrs so they need to look at who mouth they are taken from. I LOVE GEORGE BUSH
This guy need’s to know who keeps this country Free. It sure is not or was not Him. And for him to try to cut the benifets of the People that have and will put them selves in harms way is just not right. I didnot and willnot supporte this man I do not think he is an American.
Dont Tread On Me!
I knew this was coming once President Obama became President Elect. He has to take the money from someone to pay for his program that will befit those without jobs, insurance, green cards, ect. The veterans that fought, wounded, disabled and otherwise gave a great part of the health and lifestyle will now be the ones to suffer yet again.
It’s too late to keep him out of office, yes, we lost that battle, and if Congress, again a Democratic unity, goes along with him, then we can expect the veterans to take another round which no doctor can fix.
Let every Representative, Congressman and every Veteran knew that we have given more than required and need to stop the bleeding. They must refuse to pass any of these measures.
If they want to cut benefiets,then they should stop going to war.It’s ironic that they send us to a foriegn country,to die and get wounded,then turn around and shove us in a hole.
If Obama is a listener of Abraham Lincoln,then maybe he should read up on what he said on behalf of all veterans that were wounded.
Better yet maybe the militaries should just refuse to go anywhere outside the U.S
MR. OBAMA I HAVE 6 BROTHERS LEFT WE LOST OUR OLDEST BRO. 3 YEARS AGO TO CANCER..ALL SEVEN WERE MILITARY ..2 IN VIETNAM AT SAME TIME..PLEASE DO NOT CUT THEIR HEALTH CARE COVERAGE…..AND AS FOR ACORN YOU KNOW THIS IS NOT RIGHT…..THIS IS OUR MONEY YOU ARE GIVING AWAY……NO ACORN PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
President Obama, I did not vote for you because I suspected you would manage to hurt soldiers, active and retired. It seems that when our country needs to be saved either from an aggressor, or a financial dilemma, you democrats are ready and willing to sacrafy us. And, if that is not enough, then you jump on those seniors on social security. You make those who have already paid their dues with sweat, blood and guts, and you still want more! Your decision to help ACORN is an unforgiveable action, and you will have to contend with that in 2012 or sooner, if you are impeached.
Well currently I’m serving in the military, and I signed a contract stating whats expected of me and whats entiltle to me. With that being said if free medical benifits are taken away or you have to pay a certain amount, the goverment has to allocated some form of sick time for active duty, also this would leave me to belive that I should be able to negotiate the terms of my contract. Then let’s talk about quality…why should i take a bullet just to take a finacial bullet afterwards. Alot of these jobs are dangerous in nature, weather it be war or just training. but i would be curious to see our over work and underpaid troops reaction to medical benifits cuts, while were at it, it cost a lot of money to feed the troops lets cut the mess halls, ammo cost money so we should buy our own…or maybe we should just cut the military completly! we would save a ton of cash, just a thought.
I think this is wrong on so many levels. Coming from a military family, my father in the Air Force, my brother in Navy and Army, my daughter in the Air Force and my niece in the Army. Our men and women aren’t being forced to serve, they serve willingly and without regard to their own lives and families. Some are living on welfare because they earn practically nothing to live on. Our military deserve free healthcare and more! They protect us from harm. Stop paying the congress astronomical amounts of money, start treating the military the right way!!!!!
To Pres.Obama and House and Senate Reps,
Before you start cutting benefits to Active and Retired personnel we should start with you. All House and Senate and our current President should share the wealth. Cut your pay that you have so silently voted themselves LARGE pay raises over the last several years. No retirement for House or Senate reps unless they serve their country 20 years or more. No retirement benefits for any President that keep his word and make this contry better than when he or she comes and leaves office. This is a real stab in the back to every Active Duty and Retired person who faithfully served their country knowing with the peanuts that they receive in military pay the their heath of theselves and their families would never be an issue. I too will do everything I can to see that this never happens. Those of you who put Mr. Change in office should be ashamed of yourselves. You are so blind, even now I bet you still don’t see whats happening.
Mike, SFC, Ret.
Is there and email address, phone number or mailing address where the military retiree and dependents can send a response to President Obama to ensure he understands our point of view ? It is possible that an overwhelming amount of personal stories (As he likes to use) can sway his opinion and possibly his decisions. I too voted for President Obama….I would like to express my disappointment with this decision if it is true.
You might check the White House website and use the contact info there. Keep in mind that the President may only see a handful of the thousands of emails he receives daily. It might be better to contact the Congressmen and Senators from your state to make your opinion known.
I can not believe one of the first things our new president is going to do is cut benefits to the men and women who have fought and are fighting to keep America free. This should be the last thing that is cut and only if completely necessary. With all the extra money that is used so uselessly by our government, this is so unreal.
Free healthcare wasn’t in writing? Ummmm, when ya look at the TRICARE publications it elaborates on the procedures for retirees to access it. Is that just some Navy Corpsman’s perspective or is it driven from documentation that supports and approves of the benefit? They have been following through with funding and service on what was assumed a benefit for decades. I would think that would imply it was a benefit. To say that it wasn’t a benefit would put some folks in the position of unauthorized expenditure of government resources.
At this point, if I could go back and recover my 23 years of service, I most certainly would and I think there would be a whole lot of my fellow Marines doing the same. This kind of leadership and direction of this country is not what I or my generations served for. The erosion of our earned benefits will not stop with healthcare. Cuts in pensions were considered during the Clinton era and will certainly be visited again under this administration. At what point does our active duty say enough is enough, it isn’t worth it?
THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS! These men and women are the ones laying their lives on the line for out COUNTRY every single day and their families suffer hardships while their loved ones are away. It is bad enough they don’t get the pay they deserve for doing the jobs they do, but now OBAMA is going to try and cut their medical benefits? Are you kidding me? This can not be serious! This is a great example on the lack of respect and appreciation he must have for our military members, their families, and our country as a whole. These military members are the back bone of this country and deserve better than what they are already given, how dare the government take even more from them! So basically, the only way you are going to be given a fair deal now with Obama in office is to sit on your butt and wait for hand outs from our government. I guess if we don’t do anything with our lives, then we will be rewarded by them….what a crock!!! I will tell you this much, if they cut back on our healthcare they better increase my husbands pay or I will be making sure he gets out of the service. There is no way I am going to continue living this hard life as a Marine wife raising our children as a single parent while my husband is away at war, NOT EVEN GETTING PAID what he deserves, only to have our medical benefits cut too. Let our government keep this up…no one will want to join the military anymore and the next time they need these men and women to do their dirty work they’ll have to draft them all!
I’m really not surprised by this, why should we be surprised. Pres. Obama doesn’t even want to legislate (in Illinois) to save babies the have been aborted but continue to hold onto life even after the doctors did their best to end that life. If he has no regard for a babies life why should he worry about us retirees. I retired in ‘95 and hav worked as an ironworker most of the time since then. Now that I’m approaching true retirement age and need to start planning in ernest for it I get slapped in the face with this (possible) reduction in my benefits. I’m sick and tired of the legislative branch (most of who have never served a day in the military) telling the pentagon how the job can be done better with fewer personnel and or less equipment etc.
Someone else put it well, let them serve the country for 20 years before they are entitled to any form of retirement benefits.
It’s really amazing how this government who spouts about this is a “nation laws” who continues to break every promisses and commitments they made to our soldiers and veterans when they signed up to serve this nation based on a trust that the government would deliver on it’s promises. Those serving and who have this nation unselfishley are entitled to every benefit they were told they would get when the signed up. For the government to renig on that commitment, is a breach of trust and contractual obligation. Shame on you….. Take more from those who have served, and give to those who have not.. Terrible
I too was a believer when I embarked on a 30 year stint in the Navy that my medical needs and those of my family would be provided for life. I am totally disappointed in the way we retirees are being treated , as we have been dumped (for lack of other words)from receiving medical treatment at the local Naval Hospital. I have been under medical care from the Navy since early life, as my father was also a retired Navy Veteren.
I have also heard the civilian friends? question my feelings pertaining to the disregard of promised benefits that were presumed “ACCRUED”
for having spent a career in the military. Maybe the populace voted in the wrong candidate, as it seems he doesnt feel for the serviceman, and a belief that the members of his house and senate are in agreement with his policies. Its a long way to 2012 and it behooves everyone to remember what cards we are being delt by this administration.
why should we the people defend these people that dont care about the american soldiers that offered their lives to defend these people that dont give a hoot about them, these people are the ones that has gave and saved our freedom in this country while they have done without for themselves and families while serving in the military, i am ashamed if the people and our so called government that would even think of an act like this, i have never ask anything of our government as of yet, and not untill i would actualy have to but the ones that need it should have it without question, shame on our people that is supposed to represent us the people if this united states, which is supposed to be free, and i believe this is just the beginning of things to be and changed, yeah take away our guns and ammo, what about the constitution , they are even trying to change it, and take gods name out of everything and our government, lord help this country, and the hippocrits.
I AM A RETIRED ARMY SFC AND FEEL VERY STRONGLY AGAINST PRESIDENT OBAMA’S PROPOSAL TO RAISE OUR PROPAY PAYMENTS OR US HAVING TO PAY FOR OUR MEDICAL CARE. I HAVE LUNG CANCER THAT HAPPENED IN VIETNAM AND FEEL THE GOVERMENT SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL OUR PROBLEMS THAT OCCURED WHILE ME WERE PROTECTING THE PEOPLE OF THE USA AND OTHER COUNTRIES. IF THE PRESIDENT WOULD HAVE SPENT SOME TIME IN THE USA MILITARY HE WOULD FEEL OUR CONCERNS. YOU ARE ALREADY WASTING OR TAX MONEY PULLING THOSE BANKS OUT OF DEBT. YOU CAN’T GET BLOOD OUT OF A TURNUP,WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT.?
So once again…the military, retirees, disabled vets, and their dependant get hosed again by the U.S. Government. Well thank you Mr. Obama! And to all of you Vets that were foolish enough to helped put him into office.
Well you wanted CHANGE….you got it! Thanks Kool Aid Drinkers.
Soon we’ll be forced back to the draft — involuntary servitude, as it were — to get people to join the military. It’s no longer about serving your country, but a political party whose aims include protection for themselves, not the country. The name of such political systems end in “-ism,” and varies only by degree. There is so much world history – even recent history – that one’s mind must be closed or educated in a public school not to see what’s coming. B.H.O. is only a useful idiot in the quicksand of forces taking us towards the one path that doesn’t end in an “ism:” Tyranny.
To take the benefit of reduced medical care from those who have insured freedom for America through great patriotism and sacrifice is at the very least declaring their role insignificant, and borders on taking a part of each US soldier’s, sailor’s, marine’s, and airman’s honor (not the kind that can never be taken) from them.
Try cutting the benefits of those that would seek to do the above, and start from the top down. Elected and appointed officials of the USA should be held profoundly accountable to their constituents and have the integrity to MAKE THE RIGHT DECISIONS based on factual information and conscience in lieu of political agenda and personal gain.
I am a retired US Navy Chief Petty Officer and proud of it. I am also in excellent company.
HMC USN Retired. I have read most of the above submissions and understand the anger and resentment. Some even seem surprised! The way Obama thumbed his nose at the Military during his campaign should have given a clue to
just what he is doing. He is already moving fruits and nuts from the closet to his
cabinet ala the Clinton era. He wants fruits and nuts in the foxholes? He invited
a gay preacher? Okay I have strayed from the subject. Sorry!
I have been retired for decades now and I have seen Conservatives and Liberals
in office. I can even remember when there was Coservative/Moderate Democrats.
Listen folks thanks to slightly more than half of the voters we now have a Died in the Wool Socialist. He cares for the Military the way Jane Fonda cares. If he is allowed to go unchecked he will take the Military down and the rest of the USA
Well the Government has been screwing with us while we were active duty so it does not suprise me that they want to continue screwing with us when we are retired.
I AM A DISABLED VET. My medical bills would destroy my family. I have the infamous persian gulf syndrome from contact with various chemical warfare. Im 45 years old now, I was kicked out of the service because of my disabilities after 16 years of service (I was working on retirement) I have the body of a 60year old man and everyday it gets worse, I am to the point now that I am handicapped and my work has given me a desk job to keep me employed but even that wont last forever, In the last four years I have lost three disks in my back and my doctors say at the rate it going in another 10 years I will be in a wheel chair. I used to be a man in great shape who was trained well in combat (NMCB) and now I own my own special parking pass, the worst was the mental anguish that I have been through but at least I knew that the VA would take care of me, now they are going to take that away, that means that I wont be able to get anymore treatments which will mean that I will lose my job, it would be better off to just lay down and die and let my family collect the life insurance. What a great guy obama is sure turning out to be. I am SOO glad I voted for him. Rack that up on one of my more stupid mistakes.
I received an email from my cousin today, who is also retired from the US Army and I have one thing to say, as I lay in my bed sick with the flu——-It would be embarrassing to see the 1st Black President of the United States take away the medical benefits that Soldiers have worked so hard for and so richly deserve after serving his or her country for 20+ years. President Obama, I charge you to make the right decision, by not using the military as a financial scapegoat!!!!!
Most conservatives knew what kind of “change” Mr. Obama was talking about when he was stumping, and its not surprising, not to me anyway. The people of this country ignorantly granted Reid and Pelosi a rubber stamp to push every radical anti-military, anti-gun, anti-conservative, anti-Constitutional piece of legislation their twisted little minds can possibly conceive, so anyone who is surprised by this needs to pull themselves back into reality. We’re not even a month into it yet!
[...] to cut/tax medical benefits to Active/Retired military and families? Proposed Tricare Cuts Could Cause Problems For Military Families and Retirees : A Soldier’s Mi… [...]
For the first time ever, in all my 57 years I am ashamed to be an American! I am ashamed that my country, my home, my family would turn thier backs and scorn their own sons and daughters; who with pride, integerty and loud clear voices told each and every one of us and the world” You are improtant! You are worth risking everything for! I will protect you and freedom with my life!”
Have you no heart, no soul, no conscience? Have you lost all sense of reason and logic? The debt owoed to those who so courageously and honorably served all of us, by their military service is so enormous that if we provided for them and their families for the whole of their lives, it would remain unpaid.
It is shameful and unconscionable that members of our military are homeless and without the best medical treatment available!
What kind of people are willing to spend millions on entertainment and resent giveing scraps to the very people that make their life styles possible?
That America is the source of my shame! You are more than willing to support someone, who by their own choice, is lazy, abuses drugs and alcohol, and will not lift a finger to help themselves, and then have the audacity to complain about the pennies you give to those who protect you and your freedom with thier very lives? If the budget needs cutting, then cut welfare. Stop giving money to people that haven’t earned it! Restore a sense of pride and personal responsibility to America…we are not a nation of beggars!
The men and women who have and are serving in our military are the people who have earned the right to be supported by America for the whole of their lives; it is the whole of their lives that has been given for our benefit. Our President, Senators, and Representatives are paid for their service for life; so too should those who have served protecting and defending our freedom and our lives!
Please America, do what you know is right; take away the shame…chose to pay the debt owed the men and women, who by their service have earned that and so much more!
Respectfully
Marsha M. Head
An American, who owes a great debt to her defenders and protectors and knows it.
Why is everyone so surprised by Pres. Obama’s untruthfulness again…again…and again? The writing was on the wall people- anyone that voted for him was a fool for believing anything from him. He’s been anti-military from the “sic-em” moment he stuck his foot into the election race. It’s ludicrous to tell anyone to “WAKE-UP”, the damage has already been done. Neither my husband, Vietnam veteran, nor myself, (only just his “dependent-wife” of 43 years)- can be seen at the Army Base medical clinic across the river from us. There will not ever be an appointment available for either one of us. They have a civilian women Doctor there who is from India, dresses in her brightly colored Sarong and gives marginal care to the active duty in “her” clinic. Oh sure we can go over and get our generic formulary prescriptions filled- IF THEY CARRY IT, each month is different- they add some cheap generic drug and take away another one from their “allowed” listing. It’s sort of like the lottery- you might get lucky and they just might be carrying your needed medicine this month.
FREE…LIFETIME…BENEFITS- where are they(?)….. please tell us. I have to laugh and cry at the same time as there is no such animal close to us in Iowa. Well Hey I just thought of a few; After being moved all over the world for 25 years, dragging our 5 kids from school to school- watching them fall behind in some new schools cause the last ones were in were such undeveloped poverty school districts that they spent months, sometimes years catching back up again. Losing a whole household shipment off a dock cause some idiot foreign dock person went forward instead of backwards was the highlight of my life that year. What was even more hilarious was what the Military offered us “per pound” for our belongings. Say are those “benefits” Waiting for shipments that got sent to Timbuktoo and lost for months and months, getting bug infested porch furniture to use while overseas was such a nicety, and getting shots up the kazoo was always our kids favorites. We often wonder how many of them were safe, or even up-to-date when given to us.
Oh Yes We Were PROMISED FREE Medical care, several other “goodies”, VA loans to buy a home, and medical benefits for life….OOP’s someone forgot to tell all the Military Bases of this wonderful benefit, cause it’s non-existent where we live.
And during our “out-processing” period in our life we were TOLD that our state doesn’t charge taxes on Federally Retired Pay…. OPP’s someone forgot to tell the tax people in the IRS this little token of a deep stressful event in our lives, 3 years after filing faithfully we get this Gigantic Tax bill and notice that they are going to take the whole thing in one lump payment because we are so stupid to rely on anyone who gives these orientations to gullible people…. PLEASE somebody get me a barf bag……the shit is really deep in Washington D.C. Keep your eyes on our illustrious leader.
Please give us back our respect, dignity and hope for a decent life. Oh WOW we finally got a 5.8% pay increase for the first time since we retired in 1990. Big deal, we could almost take our 16 Grandkids to McDonalds and buy off the $1.00 menu… please note I said ALMOST….
My husband was spit on when he came back from Nam, people yelled Baby-killers at the guys marching in the Veterans Parade. I think maybe there were 400-500 people there the last time he proudly put on his Dress Blues, medals and ribbons and walked the street that day. Well his uniform has since been put away along with any medals, ribbons and decorations as our 3 year old Grand-daughter calls them. He will not ever proudly put it on again till the day I might have the honor and privilege of burying him and saying my last “Good-Bye, see you in the morning my
love.” And we shall meet in heaven where promises are not ever broken, he will never be laughed at again by the very people he so proudly served. I will get my whooping $200-300. for burying him, and a shocking amount of SBP, that he pays for since 1990, and IF I am lucky I will get Social Security that he paid in for 50 years- that is unless the truly ignorant people in D.C. do away with that too. Then I guess I will have to learn to live on my $219.00 of Social Security Disability that I receive now, and the SBP, cause I surely won’t get any of his retirement then- like my sister will from John Deere when her husband dies, and many others who worked those 25 years for a private sector job in the civilian world. Maybe they will let me sit on a small stool outside the commissary and hold a cup for a few bucks each day from strangers. Or shoot maybe I will finally get to finish my education and I might become a Congressman or a Senator and get a lifetime of real retirement and real free healthcare and perks- Gee wouldn’t that be dandy and heck they even give themselves a $5,000. a year pay raise and ride around in Government provided cars and have at least two homes cause it’s just so darn inconvenient to fly in first class back and forth every few weeks. Hey forget the barf bag- I need a “pork-barrel” to vomit in….
I think our country needs to WAKE UP to the greed, pocket stuffing, money hungry morons running our country.. Come and walk in my shoes for a month- I’ll by golly show you how we make it each month on a fraction of their salaries….. And we don’t get no vacations in Hawaii, nor have we ever had a vacation come to think of it, unless it’s saying Goodbye to our Daddy and Husband when Uncle sends him to protect us all.. But we got each other and our loving, devoted adult kids and grandkids who think their Dad and Grandpa is a HERO, just as I do.. Thank You my love for being so willing to lay down your life for your country…cause they won’t even remember what you fought for. At the moment it’s too damn busy making sure it stuffs it’s gluttony of pork-spots and pockets for the long haul…
When my husband retired from the Air Force after 20 years, I gave him a gift that I felt to be very appropriate. I gave him the largest tub of Vasoline that I could find. I told him that since he was now a veteran he should be prepared to take it up the ass from the government. I told you so!
Once again I see the right wingers are blindly following the piper or listening to the ever pill popping Rush Limbaugh. Before everyone gets up in arms about the Obama administration and how he wants to cut military medical benefits, you may want to do some research about what was posted. First of all, the information that was posted is the CBO.gov’s website evaluating military compensation and it is from a previous article on CBO.gov’s website that was written in Jun 07 entitled ” Consumer Directed Plans, Potential Effects on Healthcare Spending and Outcomes.” No where does it say that Obama plans to cut health care benefits for military and retiree. I often find it hilarious that people are quick to blame someone who has been in office for 3 weeks, but will not blame the person or people who have been in control for the last 8 years. But I guess when ignorance prevails, that is what happens. Yes I voted for Obama and I will gladly drink the Kool-Aid, because I like many other Americans who voted for him have common sense.
This is wrong!! These men and women have protected and served our country with great sacrifices. They should be taken care of along with their families. I have had brothers who have served years ago and recently a granddaughter and a grandson leaving in June to serve. We as Americans are proud of what our military stands for and PLEASE President Obama let’s don’t let our Military down. Continue to give them the care they need.
I am a military wife with a young daugther and another on the way and i just heard that Obama has put an idea out there to take tricare away from us and give health care to imagrants. Are you kidding me? My husband defends this country and we make sacrifices every day so this country is safe and you wanna take away our health care. Do you understand how dumb that is, how about the imagrants get a citizenship then a job and pay for there own health care. We all have to its only right and to even think of stealing from the people defending this country is aweful you should be ashamed of yourselfs. How about you take money from celeberities and athlets they make way to much money and they dont die for there country. Im so ashamed of what you are suggesting im actualy sick over it. How do you expect people to serve this country if you take away there pay, healthcare and retirement before you know it you may not have a military is that what you want. How would we keep this country safe and prevent another 9/11 with out our military!!!!! I want my children and i to be safe and not fear for our lifes every day like other countries we are America for crying out loud lets not make us weak we are suposed to be strong!!!! Enough already how dare you put this country at risk!
We have had enough taken away since my husband joined the Air Force in 1963. When someone joins a military organization and signs a contract, that contract should be honored by both parties. The grandfather claus should apply. Whatever the rules were in 1963, that is what we should live by now. Too much has already been taken away as previous promised. Give us what is rightfully ours.
I am a veteran and what someone’s President wants to do to a all voluntary military is a disgrace. What about all that has been lost to the families that their loved ones paid with their lives for the freedom that this man has. He has definity showed his true colors. The’re not for the Red White and Blue. Remember when he said that he thought the American Flag stood for oppression, not freedom. With out VA benefits a lot of veterans will be unable to receive the medical care that they were promised when they signed their name and took an oath to protect and defend this country. Remember that Obama had to take the oath of office twice because he couldn’t get it right. Yes he took the oath the next day out of sight of the American people that voted for this man. He will soon find out that the all voluntary military will soon have the have the draft board again because American veterans have lost the one thing that they were promised, He makes me sick.
Here is an ideal. Lets looks at the congress- over paid under achievers. Lets start there with cutting benifits, then move to the congressial budget office and OMB. Its only fair…..
Ken Retired Army
God forbid our demise, as well as other countries, without our brave military men and women. The real heros in this world is not politicians nor hollywood actors or rock stars, it is our military men and women. They give up life and limbs to insure peace and safety to all! Politicians and hollywood politicians give nothing except hot air and they take hig salaries and can vote themselves nice raises, expensive extras, larger planes, and the list goes on.
I think the real American people need to let them hear from them on this issue. President Clinton, and now President Obama seem hell bent on dismantling our strong military to a feeble, unsubstantial has been. If this is allowed to be cut from the budget then we will have our young men and women avoid the military. Then again, all the available jobs have been sent away from our shores and our young men and women cannot find jobs so, they will have no other course, but to join the military or go to foreign countries to find employment!
I’m retitred at a large disability Heart problems and rely on the VA very much
for my health care…….I can beleive the the President of the country would be even thinking that cutting and increasing the cost to our Veterans…….I’m also over 75 years old and rely on the benifits of Tricare for life as offered to me and my wife
for the 20+ years sevice 1955-1979…..god forbid if we take away the benifits of the people in prison and the illeage folks we are presently taking care of.
OUR U.S.A. ELECTED, GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL’S, NEED TO TAKE A LESSON FROM ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S SPEECH, AFTER THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR, LINCOLN SAID, QUOTE: “WHAT WE SAY HERE, WILL NEVER BE REMEMBERED, BUT WHAT WE DID HERE, WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.” IT SEEMS OUR GOVERMENT OFFICIALS TODAY, HAVE VERY SHORT MEMORIES. THEY CAN’T SEEM TO REMEMBER, THE SACRIFICES OUR VETERAN SUFFER, HONORABLEY IN WARS, NOT OF THEIR MAKING, BUT KEEP OUR LESS-THAN BRIGHT OFFICIALS IN LUCRATIVE PAYING JOB’S. WHILE THOSE SAME LESS-THAN BRIGHT OFFICIALS, ALSO FORGET WHAT LINCOLN ADMONISHED: “TO CARE FOR HIM, WHO HAS BORN THE BATTLE, AND HIS WIDOW AND HIS ORPHAN’S.”
Is this man a total fool? Charging veterans 50% for their medical care after serving their country! Charging “Active Military” 10% for their dependents medical care! How about cutting all the free loaders who are on the public dole, who never contributed anything to this country? I’m a veteran 64 years and by God’s grace am fairly healthy but, what about all my brothers and sisters, who served our country, was wounded and or suffered service connected disabilities? This is
the thanks from our government, to throw us all under the bus to save a few bucks? This is so wrong in so many venues! President Obama ! you should be ashamed of yourself, what is our beloved country coming to?
I have a very quick cure for this country’s financial problems, round up all the approx 20 million illegals, their extended familes and deport them all! take the billion spent on these illegals for free education, medical care, section 8 housing,
free school breakfast and lunch programs and put it back into the federal general fund!
Hello , I just make this one suggestion . Vote OUT all the people that think this is a good idea next election and don’t fall for the idea it wasn’t my idea. I get so upset when I hear all the people say i didn’t know that. That is because they are to lazy and don’t care to check it out. Just like congress didn’t read the bills before they vote. Ask them if they didn’t . Know how they voted before you ask . Vote them out if they lie. Obama stated the people Of the United States needed the same medical coverage congress received. Make him produce. If he doesn’t VOTE him OUT. Military personal were guarantee Free medical if they retired with twenty years Service and Not . NOT. BS. We paid dearly and we earned it. JIM B
I told alot of Vet’s , watch the Oath of Office for POTUS, it was done incorrectly, and was done the second time in the Oval Office without a BIBLE !!!!!! Now connect the Oil & Drug war with Central and Latian America (illegals) coming from the south > so raise our medical payments for the illegal’s but give it free to non-americans ; treason in the White House is running rampete, and Mr. Obama wants the military to pledge an Oath to him not the Constitution !!!! Oh of course give Social Security payments to illegal’s. Lets see the signed Obama’s Economic & Reinvestment plan < where is the money coming from ” **American’s Americans” ?? When will the Vet’s see the light ?? NOW ***
It is so hard to believe that our elected officials would allow this to happen at the same time as they are going to increase welfare payments. Todays Soldier and Soldiers of the past are what this country depends on to keep it free. With this type of action there won’t be any Soldiers of the future to defend our free country.
This is very troubling and INFURIATING! My father is a retiree. And I’m married to a still-serving vetern. We also have a special needs child who has yet to have a diagnosis. We’re in and out of hospitals, mostly civilian because the MTFs hae said they cannot treat our son. Paying the bills on my husband’s E-5 salary is becoming more and more difficult. My husband and I do not drink, smoke or go out and party. ALL of our money goes to paying the bills and putting food on the table. We might rent a movie or two a couple times a month to make break up the monotony, but that’s it. I explain this to show that our money is not mismanaged!
The proposed 10% share of the costs is ludicrous! We wouldn’t beable to pay it, even with the $500 non-taxable allowance. I don’t know what the proposed cap would be, but our out of pocket cost would exceed more than $10,000 a year!!! That’s over 1/3 of my husband’s yearly salary.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. All families, active duty, retiree or civilians, have it tough when there is a serious medical condition involved. But then add the extra stress of worrying about medical expenses and it gets to be too much! And yes, my husband has spent 19 months overseas in combat zones serving our country in addition to his 12 years of active duty service to the military as a whole.
A co worker (spouse of a retired Navy Chief) told me about this plan and I was speechless. I fully understand the financial mess the country is in now but attempting to cut budgets and save money with military retirees, as well as, active duty, is absolutely unforgivable. I served in the Navy for 22 years and although I don’t totally agree with my TRICARE payment every year I understand it. I would be wiling to accept a moderate increase in TRICARE fees but not what this bill is proposing.
Mike
Lieutenant, USN (Ret)
Just heard about this…I’m a civilian who has traveled around the world and knows AMERICA is blessed because of all of your service and sacrifice. I’m getting screwed by this administration on other issues, but together, OUR NEW FIGHT is to educate and start SPEAKING UP and VOTE OUT these Chicago-mob-homegrown-terrorists. I’m spreading the word about this issue.
Has Obama ever served a day of his life in the hell of war?
I have and I resent my government giving away my benefits to people who have
not served this country, and never will serve this country.
I risked my life, I nearly lost both of my feet, so that these people can live in
freedom. They take and give nothing.
Please DO NOT CUT benefits of our service men and women past and present.
Observing the “Change” brought on by the Obama administration in just a few short weeks, I can hardly wait to see what “Hope” brings.
President Obama, resign in shame for never proving to anyone that you are Constitutionally qualified to hold the office. Stop hiding behind your lawyer’s skirts.
Name those behind the vast conspiracy to loot the Nation and place us in economic turmoil shortly after the Republican convention, when McCain/Palin were leading in the polls. It takes organizational skills to remove 550 Billion dollars from the Money market accounts in one hour, I will give that Sir.
I don’t believe our Nation can survive much more “Change”. Our only “Hope” is that you remove yourself or are removed from office.
Be calm everyone!! Don’t you know that Obama needs our vet’s dollars to free up money to pay for free medical care for millions of illegal immigrants? Don’t you understand that Project Acorn has a political payoff due and owing? Don’t you realize that Obama is committed to giving extra money to the United Nations for foreign health care needs? (The UN demand is $60,000,000/yr.)
Look people, Americans need to get over the notion that we are free human beings, endowed by the Creator with inalienable rights. Face it..we exist to generate capital that the Obama-regime can redistribute to the world’s exploited masses. 2008 will go down as the year of the liberal left’s ultimate triumph. Millions of greedy obama-slobberers can now start looking to the paternalistic central government to “take care of them” , and future elections will now be decided by massive Mexican-Voter influxes in key electoral states. 2008 was the last “American Election”.
I too come from a family of people that have served their country. It is an honor! I cannot believe that something like cuts to VA Benefits is even possible. If this does become a reality then shame on you Mr. Obama and shame on all you other idiots that voted for him. Ya, this makes a lot of sense to me. Take from the people that give us our freedom to live as we choose and give to the people that refuse to earn a living or can’t earn a living because they are too doped up! Makes a heck of a lot of sense. Let’s take care of the poor people that are just downright lazy and take away from everyone else. This country is going down the tubes. You should be ashamed of yourselves! You will never win another term Obama-all your cronies are just waiting on their saviour to rescue them from their plight-how you going to do that? Oh, I get it-by sticking the knife in the back of every decent hard working American, that’s how. May God have mercy on your soul and may God have mercy on the new America that is going to emerge because of your antics!
Has anyone heard or seen H.R. 816 Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act. This is a bill in commitee and co-sponsered by 30 Rep. in the House. This is real all this other stuff going around is something that I cant git any real facts on. I hope it is not true but I do know this Bill is real.
Tri-Care for Life is only covers what medicare does not. But that sure help when you have a large medical bill. As most have stated above, this is one of the reason that we spent 20 plus years in the service.
I enlisted in the Air Force in November 1955. At that time I was promised if I made the Air Force a career I would have free medical for me and my wife for the rest of our lives. I retired in 1976 with a little less than 21 years of active duty. It is outrageous to me that now, when I am in my 70’s, I have to fight and struggle for the benefit promised to me in my youth. Many of my brothers in arms have passed on or will shortly. This is a terrible legacy this administration will leave in its wake if this transgression comes to pass and becomes law. I hope each of you reading this that will be effected by increases of any magnitude for the health care we are provided will use the power of your pen or or word program on your computers or your telephone to contact the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the White House and your Senators and Congressmen/wommen and let them all know how you feel. I intend to do so this week. This must not stand.
USMC L/Cpl Field Radio Operator I Corp Viet Nam, Police Officer, Deputy Sheriff.
You can take my benefits, but you can’t deny my duty to Country. It took me two years of torment and self doubt before I was “qualified” for benefits. I had to prove and document to the Bureaucrats that I was disabled.
If I am set aside again and asked to join the ranks of Illegal aliens and drug soaked individuals the Shame will again be on the President and Congress.
Logic would dictate that if I took me 2 years to qualify, the “undocumented” would take years before they were given a nickle. I can’t deny that they need health care, but do it on the backs of those who slept while the Veteran served. For example: the Clintons and Obamas.
So, you all expected something different from the Manchurian Candidate, now our Manchurian President??
The truth is Obama is a far left socialist who has little regard for any veteran of this country. Obama belives this country and you, Mr Caucasian veteran, are, essentially, very flawed. Making TriCare more expensive will be a minor headache compared to the rest of his agenda. Stand by, boys and girls.
THIS IS A BUNCH OF CRAP!! This just makes me so angry to know that they want to make us pay for our medical care. First of all for anyone that is military or retired military knows that the medical treatment we receive is not the greatest of treatment but that is what have, why would you want to take that away from us? Second of all we do pay for it, we pay for it everyday by being away from the ones that we love. You know I don’t see everyone enlisting in the military, therefore I think this is the least the army can do for the families that sacrifice the things that we sacrifice. I would also like to address the comment made by Mark Messner, are you not a true American? how can you say all of that crap? yes I said it CRAP!!! It is those ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS that are taking our tax dollars, it is those ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS that our taking our children’s college grants. If they want all of those privileges then they need to become a citizen and pay taxes. My husband has served over 16 years of his life in the United States Army and my father is a retired Officer of 26 years, they have not spent all of these years fighting and serving our country so that ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS can come into our country and take all of our privileges as AMERICANS.
It is nearly impossible to know what’s true and what not the case is anymore, yet the promise(s) made to all Service persons many years ago must not be changed because that was part of the agreement. Looking forward, I would not be surprised to learn that the rules guiding all military personnel will have to change because a “Trust” was never established to pay for benefits. Hence, each year Congress must pass a new budget, and a part of that budget is to pay for all military benefits that include current active duty and all retirees. The VA does not have adequate funding to provide housing for our Veterans who were injured while on active duty. Not only is there no room in the Inn anymore; there’s no space in any hospital left where many of these folks who are in need continuing help and aid. As a Country, either we honor our Veterans or we don’t. If we can find billions of dollars to send “Foreign Aid” to places many have never heard of, then we ought to find sufficient funding to help and aid our Veterans. It’s worse than a disaster to allow our Veterans fending for themselves, living in alleyways, without adequate clothing, shelter, food, medicine, and just human decency to help those who have given so much only returning to a Country that makes them feel like a disgrace. This should not be about a political position, either right or left of center, because returning Veterans simply did their jobs. It’s time we stand up to Congress and demand that no promise be broken to any military service persons. If they need to change the rules for future service people, then make those changes clear and understood, but do not change the rules for those who have already served.
I am appalled that this is happening to folks that have shown suppprt for “America” for many years, and now we are getting kicked again for being folks that have and continue to do the right thing, like paying taxes, not doing drugs, fighting wars, moving our families around all over the globe, not to mention, when we do move into new communities, we make a difference in volunteering to help those communities to be better. This is a “DISGRACE” to being an “American Citizen”. It bigiles me, that folks that are in prison also, recieve better health care then the folks that actually work for a living. Our system is failing and failing fast. I think that grocery taxes in all states need to be cut, I think that public schools need to charge a book rental fee every year for every student, that way, every child does have access to books, you see, this is not just about health care, it’s more than that. The folks that have always strived for the “American ” dream, we are being punished!!!!! Shame on our Goverment for allowing this to take place. I have a wonderful idea, why don’t we not allow, our Congress, and Senators to not make anything over $100,000 a year, and let’s see how many of those cowards actually want to be in office. Shame, Shame, Shame…I am just disgusted to continuously keep getting this type of news. And, when are we going to “Prosecute” these large companies that stole money from folks that worked their entire lives? Just some questions for you all to ponder upon.
My family and I have recieved DOD medical care and there are many days that I wish they would give me the 500 dollars so i could got out and get good quality health care from a reputable insurance company. The current Tricare system is a warning sign to all you people that want a national health care system…IT SUCKS. There are some very very good doctors and more very very bad doctors and a system wide problem where Physicians Assistants are assigned to most patients and you don’t even know unless you ask.
oK one the vets deserve there money, and second wtf!…seriously u want to cut everything all at once, u will majorly set us back into another depression, majorly!!!
Military families arent rich, seriously u know nothing about the military, You are so wrong to even be called our president, who does this shit?!
I am a newly wed, though we do not plan on him reenlishting and afterwards, we plan to have kids, but Still you want to do this to the families, who do live on pay check to pay check, there our wives out there who have to get a job so they can live finicially ok…my familiy knew a family a couple of years ago, during clinton, and they werent fincially stable, and our country was doing good, why dont you start CHANGING! what is right, No taxes on the rich, and whats this that JAILS have better living conditions then some ppl here in this country–and SOME schools get over helped then others….START by looking at the little things, not THINGS that WILL affect families, EVERYONE….more less.
OBAMA YOU ALREADY SUCK
i was talking about MILITARY FAMILIES, but idk if Mr. President is that smart to know.
I retired 2 years ago from the Air Force. What can we do about this lunatic the media put into office? We can post here all day long bitching about this but what can we do about it. We need to have a million VETERANS march into D.C. and not just on Veteran’s Day to protest. That will show them how many people these changes will affect. Will they listen?????
It has all been said in the above messages. I agree with all of them that I read . The veteran is the last place to start—-reducing any expenditures. I have a friend in CA who says rightly——”If it weren’t for the Military there would be no United States”
Hey, Mrs Air Force…most of us right-wingers saw the writing on the wall! You are the one who is blind! Don’t bitch or moan when Pres Obama cuts your military pay and benefits (if you are indeed connected to the military). The OMB/CBO documents are Obama’s “manifesto”…he will follow these documents to the letter to pay for his “stimulating” package he just signed.
Obama has to “rob peter” to “pay paul”…where else will he get the money?
I spent time in the Air Force, Army, and Naval aviation. I’ve slept on the hanger floor many times because after a very long day; didn’t want to lose time walking back to my bunk. While in SAC, we had about a week to get the B-36 ready to go over a target and a few years later 8 minutes with the B-47. (10 years service with the Air Force.) While in the Army,during the Cuban missle crisis, stayed with my H-37 helicopter for three days with a basic load of amunition waiting to go to war. Flew over a hundred combat mission in Vietnam. The crew I flew with were shot down three days after I stopped flying, all were killed. As a naval reservist, I had over 1000 hours as a flight enginer and most of our pilots has flown fighters over North Vietnam. This was before this kid Obama was born. I lost my family because I was serving my country. This country isn’t giving me any thing.
I don’t see any proposals for Congress to take any cuts in pay or benifits. Why!
How is it that I am a working Soldier and veteran, I pay my taxes and serve my Contury but this new budget propasal is saying that my benifets and my families health benifets are going to be cut? Yet they increased welfair for non working, posibly drug abusing indaviduals who keep haveing childern to get more money. How is this fair? I put my life on the line to protect our Countury and it’s people’s freedoms but I have to pay my Healthcare and my familys now. This is rediculous and exstreamly wrong. As a Soldier I am agenst this and all my fellow Soldiers and Leaders are as well. We are in a bind due to the fact that Pressident Oboma is our comander and chief and we can not speak out agenst him or any wrong policies that may be inacted. If we were union we could strike. If the armed forces went on strike this countury would be in a world of hurt. Any Contury’s leader know he needs his Armies behind him and to lose the faith of the Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, and Sailors would be dettramental to his office. I will not alow such injustices to ocure. It is my Job to protect my county from all enimes both forien and damestic.
Sure makes you feel good that you sacrificed for 20+ years for your country. I am beginning to wonder how mauch of this country is ours anymore. The President still does not have my support and never will if this goes through. It means that at 70 yrs of age I will have to go out and find a job to pay for health care. What a pity.
What a blow to the military who have made untold sacrifices and fought hard to get the benefits we finally have. Meanwhile Congress enjoys an unbelievable
retirement system and medical benefits paid for by the taxpayers and no one can do anything about it. I think sacrifice should start there. The military is always the first to be looked at when there is belt tightening to be done as they are a large entity. Remember a few years back when military pay raises were delayed for several months? What really needs to be done in the medical expense area is stop illegal aliens from getting access to benefits for which they have not earned entitlement. Better accountability to prevent fraudulent and duplicate claims could also go a long way. Shame on the powers to be for picking on the military - again.
I retired from USAF Jan.31,st.1970.I was told by the Military Doctors that one of the first things that I should do after Retirement was to visit the nearest Va Hospital and start receiving my disability benefits.This I did,No Luck. After 35 years I was approved for 30percent disability.When I received my first I was really happy.Afew days later I was really P.O.ed, That was when I found out that if you are a retired military person with a disability they take it right out of your Military Retirement .
Is this just another way to get back at us retirees by screwing us one more time..
Normally at 77 years of age I try not to get too excited about this but now I AM REALLY P.O.ed
As the proud widow of Richard J Paleski mcpo, I can’t beleive what I have just read. My husband told me that was a contract with the government part of his
pay was health care for life. As it is we could never afford to insure his “retirement pay” . So when he died l5 years ago my children and I lost his retirement pay . I never dreamed that the health care he thought he had forever, as part of his pay would be in danger. Who would make a military career leaving their family to manage alone while they fight for their country or serve 9 months on an aircraft carrier and move every two or three years for a modest pay. Members of congress and persons in government jobs get big time pay free health care many perks and never endanger their lives. This is worse than a breech of contract it is the work of ingrates. It is no way to thank the US military for their devotion to their country.
To all of you that voted to put another democrat in office I would just like to say thanks. Every time a democrat get into office the first thing they want to do is cut defense. They always screw with the military. The way I see it , we should be some of the highest paid people in this country. When I see soldiers and their families barely making it living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to get by it just makes me sick. You have people on welfare that can work but would rather sit on their collective asses and punch out kids left and right just so they can have more money. That’s bullshit Mr president. I am in the military and the way I see it you are no commander in cheif. I was sick to my stomach when you got elected. I wish we weren’t in Iraq but I would rather keep a republican in office because they care about all of us in uniform. You have no idea what it is to live our lives. Why don’t you cut out these BIG pay raises that congress votes for themselves and help us out instead. I knew this shit would happen when democrats get control like this. It always does. How can you even think of taking money out of our pockets and giving it to the illeagel people in this country. I’ve busted my ass in the Army for 18 years and my family has suffered alot with me being sent to the four corners of the earth and now it seems my retirement is going to get screwed with. What a crock of shit. YOU ARE WRONG MR PRESIDENT. Again, thanks to all of you that put him in office.
Wow, this is what we get for our service to you, our fellow Americans? WTF?
I didnt fight the terrorist afte 9-11 for this! If thyis goes through I hopr they hit you again! Maybe I should join them! Our founding fathers must be rolling in their graves! What is this country now? Money-the root of all evil? This is what we faught for indepence for? I am ashamed of fighting for you! As a wounded serviceman fighting for youre protection this is how you repay us and our families? I hope you all rot in hell! Why dont you try it and see how you feel? I hope someone can fix this! it wont be our government!
Oh ah, FELIX RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@JAMES T. KARR CAPT., USMC retired -
This is nothing new, thats what democrats do. I just hope they dont cripple the US military as a super power. One of the key ways to break down any power is destroy the moral. Here is an interesting read:
“The Proposal”
When a company falls on difficult times, one of the things that seems to
happen is they reduce their staff and workers. The remaining workers need
to find ways to continue to do a good job or risk that their job would be
eliminated as well. Wall street, and the media normally congratulate the
CEO for making this type of “tough decision”, and his board of directors
gives him a big bonus.
Our government should not be immune from similar risks.
Therefore: Reduce the House of Representatives from the current 435 members
to 218 members and Senate members from 100 to 50 (one per State). Also
reduce remaining staff by 25%.
Accomplish this over the next 8 years. (two steps / two elections) and of
course this would require some redistricting.
Some Yearly Monetary Gains Include:
$44,108,400 for elimination of base pay for congress. (267 members X
$165,200 pay / member / yr.)
$97,175,000 for elimination of the above people’s staff. (estimate $1.3
Million in staff per each member of the House, and $3 Million in staff per
each member of the Senate every year)
$240,294 for the reduction in remaining staff by 25%.
$7,500,000,000 reduction in pork barrel ear-marks each year. (those members
whose jobs are gone. Current estimates for total government pork earmarks
are at $15 Billion / yr)
The remaining representatives would need to work smarter and would need to
improveefficiencies. It might even be in their best interests to work
together for the good of our country?
We may also expect that smaller committees might lead to a more ef ficient
resolution of issues as well. It might even be easier to keep track of what
your representative is doing.
Congress has more tools available to do their jobs than it had back in 1911
when the current number of representatives was established. (telephone,
computers, cell phones to name a few)
Note:
Congress did not hesitate to head home when it was a holiday, when the
nation needed a real fix to the economic problems. Also, we have 3 senators
that have not been doing their jobs for the past 18+ months (on the campaign
trail) and still they all have been accepting full pay. These facts alone
support a reduction in senators & congress.
Summary of opportunity:
$ 44,108,400 reduction of congress members.
$282,100, 000 for elimination of the reduced house member staff.
$150,000,000 for elimination of reduced senate member staff.
$59,675,000 for 25% reduction of staff for remaining house members.
$37,500,000 for 25% reduction of staff for remaining senate members.
$7,500,000,000 reduction in pork added to bills by the reduction of congress
members.
$8,073,383,400 per year, estimated total savings. (that’s 8-BILLION just to
start!)
Big business does these types o f cuts all the time.
If Congresspersons were required to serve 20, 25 or 30 years (like everyone
else) in order to collect retirement benefits there is no telling how much
we would save. Now they get full retirement after serving only ONE term.
IF you are happy how the Congress spends our taxes, then just delete this
message. IF you are NOT at all happy, then I assume you know what to do.
@Mrs. Air Force -
If you are in the military, as your name suggests, and you voted for a democrat, you may want to do your own research. Democrats consistantly cut the military budget. So if you voted to put a democrat in office and you are military, you are shooting yourself in the foot.
Been retired since 1992 and have taken advantage of my “Tricare for Life” on many occasions….It has been good to my wife and I…..Need it badly and can’t stand the thought that this President and his administration is even considering shafting the Military. I will be writing my representatives in Washington and encouraging all my military friends to do the same….What else can we do???…Just bitching about it won’t work!!! Next election in 2012 is a long way off….How will all of you vote then???….Don’t forget this when there are off year elections also!!!! Time for a change??? You Bet!!!!
Well, YOU voted for him!!! So now, despite how much we tried to warn you all, YOU ARE GETTING WHAT YOU DESERVE!!! This is YOUR Obama Nation - Thanks a lot!!
All this free this and free that had to come from somewhere!!! I did 20 years too and I have a life threatening disease that I depend on Tricare to help me treat… but I guess it’s more important to make sure that welfare recipients that spit out 8 kids at a time get their FREE MEDICAL!!!
Never mind that we did 20 years and have been to crappy places with people trying to kill us…
The honeymoon is over… TIME TO PAY THE PIPER!
@Ed Riley -
EXACTLY!!!
My 100% disabled veterian and I would not make it. Let us know who to call or write. This really terrifies me. We were supporters of him but I have always been very afraid of him.
why is it the media masks ,does not report on such proposals as the proposed theft of funds from veterans and their familys,but reports continually on the bank and car co. fraud over and over again never saying anything new ?enough already .and why do the ileagals deserve free care at the expence of the men and women who served patriotically this nation? WE NEED A PRESIDENT WHO HAS SERVED OUR NATION TO THE UTMOST. A CONGRESS WHO SERVES THE PEOPLE. AFTER ALL THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A NATION [OF THE PEOPLE,BY THE PEOPLE AND FOR THE PEOPLE!! not special interests. Harry H.Heidick ex korean veteran
Well, my death certificate pends. Should this occur I will not be able to afford the doctor or care. I had 41.5 years of service, including all the tours overseas, and now after three heart attacks I am being told this. How wonderful we have people in our government that no longer care for Americans, especially those who risked their life to provide freedom for this Country.
As a 1964 U.S. Army length of service military retiree who served this deceitful, thankless, and unforgiving nation during and over three major engagements, in combat, and a dozen minor conflagrations on the “low” draft-era pay and non-existent allowamces I was then BETRAYED along with 432,000 cohorts on future retired pay.
This was done by the changing of a decades old law regarding how retired pay would be paid in the future. Consequently we have seen our “ingrate” successor retirees not only draw high active duty pay, but many allowances,and rediculous high bonuses. Then they all bring this high active duty pay into retirement. We have seen, witnessed and endured a retired pay discrimination that is all of 1/3 - double or more less than we have or do.throughout the 25 pay grades. This I’ve endure for over 46 years and none of my successors gave a s&^%.
Medicare DID NOT EVEN EXIST WHEN I RETIRED. Under the laws of this nation which I had served I knew that I had “earned’ life-time health care for my eligible dependents and myself. No!
In the ’70s I receive a notice from the Pentagon telling me that on attaining age 65 when no longer subject to recall to active duty - no, no, no, no, no it was age 62 when I retired but they hung this extra s&^% on us - and wanting any health care “Go to Social Security and apply for Medicare part B” along with the draft-dodger, highly paid civilian, and now the “ingrate’ highly paid militry successors.
So for 31 years I have paid; part, most or currently all of the health care fpr my wife of over 60 years and myself. Health care was not a “promise.” for me. It was the law. Mary served with General George S. Patton’s Third Army Field Hospital as a captain nurse in France, Germany and Austria. Prior to that vacation she was buzz-bombed in merry ole england.
In my eight decades of life this past election is ;the first election I have ever missed. I simply could not choose between two loosers or find a lesser of two evils.
I have been a party to two separate cases which headed to the Supreme Court. The first was a retired pay suit in which the Supreme Court quickly informed us in the mid ’60s, “Congress can do what they want to do with the military.” What was your feelings about this action?
The second health care suit by Colonel George “Bud” Dayin 1996 took six years in arguments in which they would’nt even let him in the door.
Have a good time but don’t expect me to throw anymore Benefits for ingrate successors. Oh yes. I was a party to a national political action in 1968 regarding pay in which we won and then the crook, tricky dick hixon or was it nixon, told us in a Secretary of Defense letter of 11 July 1970 to “have a drink.”
Live in your ignorant morass. Or have a good day. ,
You all got more and want still more. A generational approach to issues.
@Mrs. Air Force -
Let me start by saying, Obama is a no body, drink your kool-aid its posioned by that very man, He has created more spending in 1 month over the past 100 years of exsistance. YOU should be ashamed of YOURSELF for voting him in. I dont believe that you should be president with out have serving this country. American Soldiers and their Families do what that man has yet to do,PUT THEIR COUNTRY FIRST ABOVE ALL, with this we should be given what has been promised to us free medical for life, is that really asking so much when really you and every other citizen who chooses not to serve is asking us to give our lives so you do not?
You people in Washington sitting on your big salaries and never picked up a gun to defend the USA. Now you want someone like OBAMA to cut the hearts out of the guys who fought for you so you can be sitting in Washington and doing nothing most of the time. You should have been the one trying to stay alive in the Bataan Death March. Prisoner of War for years and still stayed in to serve your country for over 20 years and now can hardly walk because of the beating you took on your legs and need the help from Tricare. The guy who survived the bombing of Pearl Harbor and is now paying for it with medical problems and needs the help of the Tricare for Life. Take it away and you can look in the mirror and say “Golly, I am sure happy that they fought for me and I am here instead of being that Old War 11 veteran who needs the help of Tricare now and who knows how much time he has left. Think twice before you stabbed them in the back. We need our Military and they need the help they can get–cut some of the congressmen’s benefits and that includes their retirement pay too.
@Charles Kotkin -
Vietnam Veteran
If you went to the CBO site you would see that it was written in December 2008 not under President Obama but under your favorite President and war hero Bush(43).
If your going to put someone down you ought to read what you are talking about in the first place. I’ve seen so much of this slant of what the right calls truth which twist the truth every which way they want to put President Obama down because he was not your pick to be president. Please google CBO and read just what it says. The part that is referred here starts on pg 185 or 187 I don’t remember the exact page.
kick OBAMA out and get someone who knows what it is all about!
He is a crooked Illinois politician and does not have to worry where his meds com,e from as he will get his from the GOV”T!, plus the fortune he gets as a former pres.
I SAW THIS COMING—EXCEPT FOR “ET” AND “INSIDER” ON TELEVISION HE HAS DONE NOTHING AND TAKING HIS FIRST 100 DAYS TO GET HIS PLANS IN ORDER—ANYONE WHO WON’T SALUTE THE FLAG AND ISN’T A NATURAL BORN CITIZEN COULD GIVE A SHIT LESS ABOUT ITS VETERANS–”RETIRED”—DISABLED—OR ACTIVE—HOPEFULLY THERE ARE ENOUGH OF US THAT CARE WILL UNITE AND PUT AN END TO THIS RABBLE FROM “SEA TO SHINING SEA”
I must say I am very impressed with Barack, this guy comes out of no where and convince the country to elect him on a base of lies. He beat out a war hero and that is what the problem really is. This guy never served, he never had to kiss his mother goodbye before going to war, he never had to write a death letter to his family because he knew he wasn’t going to live through it, he was never shot at, he never had to watch his brothers die in his arms, he just doesn’t get it. This would be one of the worst possible moves a president could make. I didn’t fight in the war for these people to take from me what I have paid for with my blood, sweat, and tears and give it to some low life that can’t even begin to fathom what I and millions of others had to endure while they sit back and smoke weed and not even think about getting a job because they be taken care of
Greg Jackson
Cpl USMC
OIF Veteran
Karl if you read the title of the post, it says PROPOSED and it’s only one of the proposals that are before this president and congress. Who knows what they’ll chose to do, but if their economic ‘pork filled’ stimulus package is any indication, then this entire country is in for a whole world of hurt. Quite honestly, his track record so far hasn’t shown me that he’s too damn concerned about our Troops or their families.
This isn’t what I joined the Navy back in 1940 and serced until 1960 for. Ther was a clause somewhere saying I would be taken care of in my later life. The Congress and Senate have taken care of themselves in both healthcare and pension. No word on cutting thier benefits. All I ever see is increases in their benefits. Take care of the Veterans in the past and future that served their Country. I served on 2 Ships sunk during my time , USS Sturtevant DD 240—USS Murphy DD603.
Remember he can recommend you can decide. If this proposal does come to light and it probably will then all of us have the obligation to contact our Senator’s and Rep and demand that they vote it down and I dare say even to march on Washington. This is a travesty of a huge proportion. This absolutely must cross political lines. We have served for many, many years and to call on us once again to make sacrifices is fine just as soon as our leaders begin making some sacrifices as well. They have the best long term health care, and pension imaginable and until they start to lead by doing then they should leave the rest of us alone. They claim there is a health care problem in this country and there is a very definite need, so why not just give us there program. It seems that they all think that they are above the rest of us. We have to watch every penny we have just to make ends meet and they in turn vote themselves a cost of living increase. Enough is enough.
I knew it! It’s always the democrats that want to take away from hard working honorable Americans and give it to those who do not deserve it. This pisses me off so much mainly because I know that Obama does not give a rats ass about military families. We are the ones that sacrifice. We have to put our marriages on hold for 12-15 month long deployments, we have to live paycheck to paycheck to support our families. We have to live with 5am-11pm or later days when they aren’t deployed. People that aren’t in the military or haven’t had a loved one in the military don’t understand what it is we deal with on a day to day basis. Yet we are constantly being looked down on because “we chose this life”.
President Obama- ARE YOU LISTENING?!?!
Signed,
An Army Wife.
I’d really like to know WHY obama is going to give 20+ million $ to the Philippines & spend 20+ million $ to move people frm the Gaza strip to America at the same time reduce medical benifits for every active duty member &their family,diabled vets, reserve,retired vet(disabled & nondisabled).Where was the President?I don’t think he even was in ROTC!
30 years in the Navy and 15 years with DOD. Never seriously thought about what I would do without medical because we have always had it there. Either Tri Care for Life and now Medicare.. Looks like all those promises they made about medical care for life, means for someone else’s life, and not the Military who have given so much for the country. If I came from one of the THIRD WORLD countries and stayed here illegally, i guess I would get FREE MEDICAL FOR LIFE. That seems like a PROMISE he wants to keep. TIME TO “WAKE UP” America and see what you VOTED in…….
If this bill is even considered by any politician or the President then he should be impeached as well as any of the senators or congress people who vote for it. This is simply outragous the very people who give thier lives, and scarifice their families for this great country to be denied benefits would be a crime, and those responsible should be punished.
I hope people remember this as well as the other ridiculous things this administration and congress is doing when election time comes around in 2 year and then again in 4.
Well hope you remember this at next election. I guess it is to late to say we all tried to tell everyone he is not the second coming, and change that he promises is not the change anybody wants, except those who have done nothing to support this country. I blieve we call them the takers, people who believe they don’t need to do anything to help this country much less serve or protect her, good luck.
Chris, yoe need to go price good quality health care for a family of 2 much less a family that is larger. The $500 bucks will cover 1month and you still will have co-pay that is usually 20-45 a visit, may want to re-think this one.-
Why should an administration that advocates affordable health care for all, start by raising the rates on those of us who have affordable health care?
To any and all legslators that fail to get behind our military and retirees:
If you enact this proposal, you will loose the opportunity to be behind us but the prospects of being in front of us will be greatly enhanced.
Every one, please write to your representatives, demand that they enforce the provisions of the 20th amendment to the constitution, also demand your rights under Liberty Clause of the constitution, demand that under the equal protection clause, congress launch a full investigation of Obam, just as they did to McCain in July of 2008. We may find that this guy is not :
1. A Natural Born Citizen or
2. That he may not be a citizen at all.
There have been 41 court cases trying to obtain this information. The House and the Senate can call for this action just by standing up and demanding it as a Point of Order.
John W Martin Jr.
Msgt. USAF Ret.
I never cared for the man’s ideas. He was working towards this end for years - he was on the benefits committee if I am not mistaken. I told all my friends about him but they wanted change and thought he was the savior. Now it’s coming. Your benefits and my benefits are going to be taken away and given to someone who never spent a day in the service of this country. Most of the politicians haven’t been in the military so you can see where they’re coming from. I truly feel sorry for the men in the services now and their families. If I had to do it all over again I’d go into politics - where the real tax free money is.
Iam a retired veterian, I did 20 years in the United States Navy and I also have 2 sons in the Army National Guard. You want us to serve and defend our county and this is the way we get treated. You take away our medical benifits which we earned. It is just wrong . Yet you give away money to businesses that dont even deserve it.
I agree a lot with the above quotes.
My uncle, Navy WW2 Pearl Harbor survivor, now deceased, my husband, Navy Vietnam, his son, Marines, Desert Storm, my son Navy, 2 West PACs, 20 years, retired, myself, US Air Force Reserve 6 years, medical discharge. Why is our military veterans and their families having to suffer??? Kind of funny when you think of it. Our MILITARY are on duty 24-7. How many days a week do congressmen and senators work???? They get free medical for life even if they are only in office one term. And how come they seem to find the money to vote themselves a raise??? Something is definitely wrong with this picture. I think that Mr. Obama had better rethink his proposals. Not all things promised as a canidate can be kept. If it weren’t for out men and women in uniform, this wouldn’t be a free country. Those who sit on their duff are never going to get up off of it as long as people keep giving them handouts. Why should they work. They get a monthly check, food stamps, and free medical and dental. Where is the incentive to work???? Come on people wake up. The good old USA is a great place to live, but when you come here you work just like everybody else. Why should you get help from the government to get a loan to get started or use our welfare to live on. I couldn’t get a loan to start a business so why should someone who isn’t a citizen get one????? I have a lot of gripes, but I am going to hush for now. I could go on a tirade, but this isn’t the place for it. Start writing your congressmen and senators. They going to need your vote to get relected for another term.
http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d07647.pdf
If you want to know the truth then follow this link. This was the proposal under former President George W. Bush in 2007. Unless someone can prove to me that this information is recent and has been proposed by the very President that is trying to use our medical care system as an example of the health care that should be available to ALL Americans then I will consider it as accurate as all the other propaganda and false information put out there in an attempt to sabotage our President.
Carmion, if you look at the bottom of the article that I wrote, you’ll see reference to my source of information. As I stated, this proposal is one of many that have been presented as possible changes. At this point, no one knows what proposal will be accepted and put into effect. Believe me, when I write articles, I research what I’m writing about and you’re more than welcome to check and verify any sources that I use. Honestly, myself or no one else has to do a thing to discredit anyone, including Obama. I’m sure he’s quite capable of accomplishing that on his own,. At this point, I can only hope that he and congress have more respect for our military men and women, then to take steps that would be harmful to those who give up so much for this country. I won’t apologize for my opinions, so if that’s what you’re looking for, you’re out of luck.
This is absurd. men and women who have paid for the freedoms that these ignoramus’ enjoy are going to be denied their rightful compensation. We have served and preserved this country and our way of life through long hard work, combat, separation from our families and friends, so that the politicians can allow people to enter this country illegally and reap the benefits and entitlements which rightfully belong to those who have sacrificed for this country. Now, these slackers want to take away our inherent right to affordable health care and re open our health folders tore determine the disability ratings of some whose disability have made them dependent on the VA and TFL systems. They should impeach them all. These people need to read their history and remember the veteran uprising in1936.
I’ve said it before and will say it again Congress and it’s leadership are frigging Idiots.
We need to cut their health care out and let them die for like of health care.
On Feb 24th, the Pide Pipper stated in his joint congress speech that he is going to take care of those who are serving and those who have served in WWl/WWII . No mention of Veit Nam or Koren Oupation Veteran’s nor the families. Again he was campaigning and saying nothing specifically about anything on Health Care except everyone will have it. He quotes “let ’s be clear” well let it be clear…if he invokes the information on Tri Care/TCFL and Medicade and other military benefits he will cause an burst of uprour by everyone connected to the military, especially the Veterans of all conflicts who have stood up against foreign enemies to pertect our freedoms and the American Democracy. We should contact our designated congressional representives to show solidarity disappontment that Page 189 of his budget will not help but severily hurt those who are serving and those who have served defending our country. His candy cover turn-around was to decrease the gloom and doom. If he and other congressionial so-called leaders would have served in any branch of the service they would understand about our service to the USA. If our President would get rid of the illegal aliens, sanctuary cities and put a full force on our own borders, billions would be saved on welfare programs, medical treatment and other costs like taxes that drain our economy. This includes his Aunt. Let it be clear we are fighting the people that is serving us and only 26% have served. THIS IS GLOOM AND DOOM. We as veterans need to keep speaking out…tell the exaulted one to slow down and truly be transparent. We veterans think he has transparency when he wants. Call, write, e-mail, fax or personally get in touch with your congress person in your state, district or whatever. VETERANS DO SOMETHING NOW!!! Our health care and benefits were earned according to our contract of enlistment, Mr. Obama said last night that he was going to take care of are veterans and our military and they will get the healt care they deserve. We are confused because no specifics were mentioned in his speech. ASK for clarification NOW /BEFORE HE SIGNS SOMETHING ELSE INTO LAW. After reading this he must not think we deserve too much…we need help to stop him from taking our truly deserved heath benefit.
[...] click here [...]
As a Marine wife, We Bearly Make ends met with our pay check now and he is in Ar Ramadi Iraq.. This is wrong I believe that he deserves alot more and I know alot of ppl that agree with me.. He is missing his son growing up for a year and tht 3,000 a month isn’t nothing compare to what he is missing.. I agree he signed up for this but we thought that he would be treated better paid more.. The Marine Corps already owe us 4,000 b/c the recruiter did not put in we was married but yet I had to sign papers for him to leave for basic.. And they have made it clear that we will never see it.. They should not do this…. I am very pissed about this.. srry for the lang. But Honestly they fight for our country risk there lives and their kids and families are over here not knowing what is gonna happen next they should treat them better and actually take care of them.. Leaj
I tried to tell people that this would happen it happened in the Clinton Administration and the Carter administration. The first thing to get cut is military health care and both acctive duty families as well as those that retired. And President Obama had the gall to stand in front of congress and say he would support those that serve and served this great nation. He is a very avid follower of history and he is repeating history by proposing these cuts. People get a clue he has to make good on all the money he accepted in his campaign and to do that he will say what you want to hear and do what those who put money in his pockets want him to do. I have allready contacted my senators and congressman to put a stop on this insanity you should do the same.
If the gov’t wants to cut somewhere expenditures somewhere they should look at the ridiculous “retirement” plans for anyone who has ever served in Congress or the Senate… and while they’re at it, cut out all of the unbelieveable monetary waste from “Pork Barrel Spending”. I can’t even begin to express my disgust over the recent “Bail Outs”.
A 79 yr old
AF retiree Enlisted 1948 and retired july 1976. Are we retirees being treated like low class citizens? We were prepared to give our lives at any time during our tour. We raised our families while being under paid, endured family separation and but still served with pride. Now because of the national crisis we are expected to become unable to provide for our families. Maybe it is time for an uprising and revolt of all retirees, families and friends and other class of citizen to take from those who have profited during the good period and give back to the people they took from. The the nation would be back on its feet in no time. Bankers, CEO’s money lenders all are home not worrying about anything. Even those making the laws in the Congressional body ought to stand up and feel the pain of not being able to provide for their families. Those who are making these laws need to open their eyes, and pay the same payroll deductions as the average citizen, especially let them pay into social security, into a retirement fund and medical care for themselves and their family. Everybody treated alike, no special interest class including the President.
I don’t think that it is fair that our men and women who served and is serving our country should pay for health care. Also my son served in the U.S. Army for 8 years and served 2 years in Iraq and has related injury. The men and women who served and have related injury should continue to receive these benefits. We the people of the United States Of America owe the men and women these benefits because of the we have the freedom. DON’T TAKE ANYTHING AWAY FROM OUR MEN AND WOMEN OF THE MILITARY.
Quoting Theodore Roosevelt,,,,,,,,,A man who is good enough to shed his blood for his country is good enough to be given a square deal afterwards. Truer words cannot be found!
I disagree with taking away benefits from military members (active, retired, spouces, etc.). When the member entered the military often one of the main reasons was the benefits which they have more than earned. Unlike individuals who are expecting a free ride from their Government.
I was in the battle at the Chosin Reservoir where I got frozen feet and hands for the rest of my life.I did not vote for Obama because he could not prove that he was even born in this country.Therefore He is not elgible to serve as president of the united states. If some one took him out of office the next idot in line would be Joe Biden,I cant bear the thought of what follows him . I earned all the compensation and medical treatments that I have received sofar and if he and that gang of clowns that surround him want to deprive me of consideration for further needs which every disabled veteran deserves then he will have proved himself to be an inconsiderate dog. G.H. MARSHALL
SGT.USMC
I was promised those benifits for my 22 years of service which included 7 years over seas duty of which one was in Cuba in 1963 and two tours in Viet Nam and wounded near Kae Son combat base.
WHAT”S HAPPENING TO OUR PROMISED BENIFITS FOR OUR SERVICE…BEFORE YOU MAKE THIS DECESSION, SPEND SOME TIME IN UNIFORM AND SHOWER WHEN POSSIABLE AND BLEED WITH YOUR BROTHERS.
MSGT. USMC RETIRED
E-mails and letters to this Socialistic government will do nothing. The politicians are interested in only one thing and that is how much they can line their pockets with
and how much power they can generate. The stupid people voted them in. If,
and that may be a big IF, there is another election in 2010 we can vote them out and insure we get people that have some brains.
A march on Washington with several million angry veterans would also get action!
I feel we have sacrificed enough without increasing benefits for illegal aliens and welfare bums! Not one dime should be lost from our medical care!
To the ones who point out that the report proposing the cuts to military active and retired members and dependents was dated in December 2008, under President Bush: do you know what CBO stands for? It stands for CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE - the already Democrat-run branch of our federal government, just in time for the new Democratic President - coincidence?
The mere fact that someone would even suggest putting more of a burden on military members, retirees and their families is a pure outrage - no matter who the president is. If you go to the document, http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/99xx/doc9925/12-18-HealthOptions.pdf, page 5, second paragraph, it states that the document is meant to be impartial. However, in the pages (starting with p. 187) proposing the cuts to military health expenditures, the bulk sounds like an argument for the cuts, with merely a sentence or two buried toward the end stating what “critics” would argue.
People need to do more research on things before just mouthing off, and this is something that democrats have been pushing for for a long time. Now that they have their man in office, unfortunately, it may happen. I am the widow of a Gulf War veteran who died from cancer, and this is my only healthcare…it would greatly impact me, but that’s not what infuriates me the most. What infuriates me the most is what the proposal would do to the entire military family as a whole, active and retired, because they deserve much better. By “military family” I mean every person who has ever served in the US military and their family members, because I consider us all connected by a special bond and commitment to our country.
I fully agree with the person who said that the military package was never meant to be comparable to civilian benefits, and that the demands of the job are (definitely) not comparable! Anyone who has ever served in the military or ever loved a military member (family or friend) should be outraged by this suggestion. I am definitely contacting my representatives in Congress, but since they are all (fortunately) Republicans, my voice may not be heard because their voices will be stifled by the Democratic majority….
take care of veterans and don’t diminish our benefits to put your social policies in place. We didn’t spill our blood for wealth redistribution and we deserve better from our government.
What is new they take from the veterans that gave their lives and everything to this country. I think it is a great shame when we can not take care of the men and women who took care of us
Those of you who voted for Obama, you are getting the change you voted for!
I don’t agree with taking benefits away from veterans either, I am one, i only served 3 years during vietnam but those of you who made carriers of the military
should be taken care of. PERIOD !
Please don’t cut our health program.
I want to know where you get the right to give all of out tax payers money to other countries? We should have a say it that! Cut some of that out and if that’s not enough, cut some of your perks! I’ve gave 22 years of my life and some of you give very little and get way more pay and perks than we do!
Try living by the Golden Rule!
I am in total disbelief that this”budget cut” is even a possibility. What is the matter with you? My son is in the Army, but even if he were not, I would be appalled. These men and woman, and the millions of people that have served in the past have layed down their lives and their families have sacrificed everything to keep our country safe and what it is..or should I say what it was. Where honor meant something. That promises made to these soldiers meant something. If we cannot keep our promises and take care of the men and woman that are and have served this country, why would any country and its people believe the promises you make in negotiating treaties with them? Why should they risk their lives, miss the birth of their babies, the death and loss of spouses, parents and family members to keep an America safe that doesn’t have the sense God gave them and has lost sight of the meaning of the word pride and encourages people to feel that welfare is their right and it is the obligation of anyone that actually works hard to make a living to provide this welfare, while making their families struggle to make due with what is left after you take what you feel you need for them. I have heard many people say they will not resign or join because they can’t afford to make the sacrifices you are asking of them, and their families if the government’s plan includes cutting their benefits, the same benefits that allow them to have to have one less worry while they are in a far away and hostile country for 15 months - or longer. Not to mention the Veterans who are retired and trying to survive based on a planned amount, to all of a sudden be burdened with an additional health insurance payment they have not allowed for and were promised they would not have. President Obama - if this is the kind of “change” you were saying you would bring - you can have it. I am truly ashamed.
will wait to pass judgment until i see this on a reputable news service. bloggers aren’t the most reliable reporters…isn’t that right, conservatives?! you can’t have it both ways.
it’s primarily targeting non service-related injury benefits…and anyone crying about it needs to look at the current thousands of young troops coming home with no arms or legs. if you decided to ride your VA benefits in lieu of REAL insurance, then you were hoping (like the liberals are often accused of) of sucking at the government teat ’til death. sorry, that’s not how America is supposed to work, boomers.
.cc
I THINK THE #1 PRIORITY TO BE PRESIDENT IS TO HAVE SERVED IN THE MILITARY FOR 6 YEARS OR MORE, BEEN THROUGH AL LEAST 1 COMBAT ZONE, AND THEN CONTINUE SERVING IN THE RESERVE FORCES FOR 4 MORE YEARS. THEN HE/SHE WOULD MORE UNDERSTAND HOW TO LEAD THE COUNTRY, AND ALSO UNDERSTAND BETTER HOW TO TREAT THE DISABLED/RETIRED MILITARY PERSONNEL. AS THE GOLDEN RULE “DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE THEM DO UNTO YOU.”
I wouldnt want a bunch of trained pissed off veterans mad at me.
The sources I used are right there at the end of the story, for anyone to see .cc. Feel free to check them.
Have these people lost their minds. Who will protect this country when you don’t have a military anymore?
After 30 years of honorable and faithfull services, I feel like I’ve been sold a bill of goods.
I served my country for 21 years and now there thinking about putting the screws to me. I’m not the only retired vet that stayed in the service for those years so I could have my benefits when I retired. It was a big reason I decided to stay in and serve my country for so long. Why don’t they cut out congresses retirement. What a joke, they do 2 and 4 years in congress and retire with a full retirement. why not make it fair and cut there retirement in half like they do for all retired vets . That would save alot of money. I can not believe this president has the balls to even bring this up. If he had served his country this would not even be an issue. I first thought he was going to be good for this country, but now when you start messing with the vets that deserve to be taken care of. It’s a total discrace. Shame on you Mr president.
I’m glad I elected for a european out and decieded to work in the German system.
I knew the US medical system was a crying shame and now its worse. This seems to be the only way to beat the system is to get out of it.
Sincerly
George Hernandez
If you cann’t bet the system its time to get out to where you can afford it.
This is how the military takes care of their own.
This makes me sick to my stomach. The whole purpose of the federal government, per the US Constitution, is to protect this country. We all pay taxes to the federal government for our military. Its time that ALL of our elected officials go back and read what our founding fathers intended when they created federal government and state government. The federal government is to provide a military to protect all states. I dont mind paying taxes for our military. But when they spend more money on banks and companies that can’t manage money, then they do on the individuals giving their livesto protect us, that is a problem. We all need to stand up and start speaking together with a LOUD VOICE. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
So now it comes our turn. Twenty years of service right down the tubes. We were guaranteed medical care and retirement pay for the rest of our lives if we gave twenty years. An upstart individual thinks that his four year term should result in cutting benefits guaranteed long before he was out of diapers. Stop bailing out banks and individuals that just keep robbing their employees and the American public and putting the money in their own pockets. I see the change that President Obama is speaking about now. The change is what is going to be left in our pockets……just change!
our country is being ran by a bunch of terrorist, they are paying them to screw us and dictate how they want them to ruin this country and the people. they could care less about anything says or does to fix this countrys problem. we are just pawns of time for their benefit to screw. as long as they are getting paid incredible amounts of money they will not stop at nothing to destroy us, the military and anyone not contributing to their bank accounts.
I can’t believe out country leaders would like such a thing happen to our military personnel who have fought for this country forever. Nothing should ever be questioned or denied for any of our troops, they should receive ever exclusive things this country has to offer especially health and dental care for free. If they need a new car or truck then the country should provide that as well. They deserve anything and everything, they have given there all and deserve it all. If they need a house no questions ask, PROVIDE IT ASSWIPES.
If for one minute I thought this president Obama was planning to cut the throats of all veterans and active duty personnel I am sure he would not have garnered the votes he did from the military.I as a military retiree from viet-nam will never vote for any of the present day politicians and will spread the word on this subject if it should ever pass Congress.
Some of us tried to tell people who they were voting for during the election, however, the Hollywood gangs took over and then there was the president of Military.com who went on TV saying that most Vets were going to vote for Hussien.(Obama).
My husband has had 3 combat tours and finally retired after 38 years of service. Now,after all he has worked for, we are going to have everything take away. His retirement, his insurance, etc. .but, it’s OK to give the banks, insurance companies, and others who have taken away from us all these years BIG BIG BUCKS so they can party.
Has the USA gone crazy. We never got paid well anyway, and now your taking away more. Stand Up and have balls enough to fight for our rights. We worked very hard for the USA. Now the USA needs to stand up for us.
Maybe we should send our congress and senators to fight for our family members who gave so much or even send the president maybe he should really see what its like to be in a war with real guns shooting at you. People wake up and realize if they take away this…. What is left…..nothing and we will never get it back. Stand up for our rights.
This is an outrage! There are already controls in place at the VA. so that assistance in based on the veteran’s income.
Once again it would appear that the entitled in Washington will continue a lifestyle unaffected by the economic crisis while expecting others to pay an even greater price and sacrifice.
We need to get impeachment process started to stop this man before he can get his full agenda in place. He has to be stopped. There will be no one entering service if this goes through, and the ones that are in will surely vacate rather quickly.
The rest of the world are just waiting for the US to be weakened to the point we wont be able to defend ourselves. We absolutely cannot afford to let this happen. We have already given more than could reasonably have been expected of us. Then there are our families and what they were put through for us too. We must stand tale and be heard so this bunch of clowns get the picture before it is to late!
tale should be tall Sorry
I just wish there was a way to forward all these comments DIRECTLY to the Oval Office and Congress for their review… I wonder when they will start cutting into our retirement pay sighting “Budget Cuts”!
As far as I am concerned, Barrack Obama represents a bigger threat to the survival of the USA as we know it than Russia and Iran together. This liberal socialist should be impeached before he can sell this Country down the river.
It is indeed a sad day for all Veterans who has so bravely served their Country. We get the ax while Congresional members of the Goverment still receive their FREE care and I’ll be willing to bet do not have to stand in line and wait hours upon hours to be seen by a Doctor at he Local VA Clinic. I am a veteran of only 12 years, served in Korea and came home unscathed. I volunteer to drive the Local VFW van taking Veterans to the VA Hospital and while waiting in the Hospital I see all these young people in so many different forms of hurt that I really feel ashamed that I came home un-hurt. How in the world can Obama and his henchmen look in the mirror each morning and not want to crawl in a hole and hide from the Citizens of the USA.
I voted for Ron Paul. Now you know why!
We Tricare for Life Veterans don’t need the stupidity of cutting our benefits
down and raising our costs.
I live in San Diego and we got kicked out of the Navy Medical Center when we
turned 65…and now they want to rip up our finances?
Don’t l it happen
We learn just days ago that the Federal Reserve, which has little or no real oversight by anyone, has “loaned” two trillion dollars (that is $2,000,000,000,000) over the past few months, but will not tell us to whom or why or disclose the terms. That is our money. Yours and mine. And that is three times the $700B we all argued about so strenuously just this past September. Who has this money? Why do they have it? Why are the terms unavailable to us? Who asked for it? Who authorized it? I thought this was a government of “we the people,” who loaned our powers to our elected leaders.
So should it supprise me that they would do this? We the people have got to take over our role in government, we are the boss not the government officials, they are supposed to do what we want not necessarly what they want.
I am saddened by this news,Due to the sacrifices my husband has given while giving everything he has got to the military physically and working as hard as he possibly can, he has had 3 knee surgeries on each knee…plates and pins in his spine and multiple other parts that have deteriorated due to working his ASS OFF and not sitting on welfare, HOW DARE This even be an option for the government to consider….ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTED…SHAME ON YOU WHO WOULD EVEN VOTE FOR THIS
I served 20 years in the Navy, and recieved 13 ribbons for duty off the
coast of Vietnam.
The stupidity of reducing or taking away our stated benefits is hurtful and
criminally sponsored.
Additionally, I live in San Diego and at 65 we retirees got kicked out of the
Navy Medical Center…Sheeesh..
Paul
If you don’t back the VETERANS I will do what ever I have to to se you are never re-elected.
Get to work, earn your wages.
It is amazing to me how this man says he is for the “hard working american”. There is no person more hard working than the mlitary person. They keep us safe. They are subject to the whim of any and all presidents who change things just so they can make their mark on history. If you care for our country you must support those who are the most loyal to it. The ones who would die because they choose to obey an order from the head of our military. That would be you Mr. President. Any good leader would care for those he commands. I say we as Americans will not stand for these kinds of unnessary cuts. If Obama won’t do what’s right. We have to. We must speak out and show our President that he represents us, not dicates us. America must protect those who protect her.
Just when I thought that the new administration is supposedly doing an overhaul to our healthcare since it hasn’t been affordable to a majority of the American people and yet again, we are faced with another dilemma. For recent retirees who has been unable to find a job and have been dependent on their meager retirement annuity to pay for the membership and co-payment is sure to be forced to dig deeper in their savings for this additional increase. I would have been more understanding but a more than 50% hike is way too much….. I can just speculate that this would also affect the prescription fees.
I hope this makes all those vets and active duty military who voted for him think twice about their decision I can’t imagine why anyone in the service would think he was a good idea for us!
I didn’t vote for the man to begin with!I always questioned his loyalty to the military men and women and families!I hope this doesn’t happen in my opinion our military families should receiving the best of care for absolutely nothing.After all they are the ones willing to give their lives to serve this country,now they need our help,everyone needs to speak up and out loud at this latest travesty.
Sincerely,Cynthia Karnaghon
In 1971, I entered the Army, I was not sure if I would make it a career, but after serving in Vietnam, It was at that time I realized just how important our actions were. I retired with 21 years.
Ater 911, I was very proud of all the young men and women who entered the military, and was willing to give up the lives & limbs for this wonderful country.
Then we put this non-military individual into office, and now he is pulling this shit with our medical benefits.
As others have stated, lets cut the pay increases for our politicians, cut the medical benefits, stop giving funding to all the illiegal aliens “send the asses back to where they come from”
A big mistake has been made, I just hope we can survive, and make our way out of this mess.
Jim B, SFC (Ret)
It’s about time to fire the whole damn congress, remove the term democate and republican from out political system, allow no lawyers to run for congress. Make them pay into social security, remove their current retirement system and replace it with a sytem like we had, ie: low pay, get 1/2 salary upon retirement and if they are lucky get some form of health care that a new president and new congress can take away from them EVEN if promised lifetime health care. I for one am tired of being respectfull of these clowns. Put them on notice now. We could go on and on and on but it would wear my fingers out on the keyboard. Excuse the poor spelling, but I,m a stupid person who gave 20 years to our govenment to have my promised benefits taken away at their pleasure.
As a retired Air Force, disabled Vietnam Vet I feel betrayed beyond words. I am sure I will fight to my dieing breath any such change to the healthcare provided our service men and women, active duty and retires. I know our professional military service organizations will form a strong lobby against these proposals and I will be one of the millions in protest. I will not vote to keep this regime in power. Isn’t this what the Boston Tea Party was all about? I am in favor of firing the entire 585 elected officials we have and starting all over. Beginning at the top. God help and God Bless our country. My prayers will be answered when we get the current leadership out!
I am so not surprised by this. I know EVIL when I see it, and when I saw Obama speak during the campaign he made me sick. Everything I am against he is for. Anything moral he is opposed too. This is just yet again another example of him hating this country. Notice he didn’t wear the American flag on his jacket until people pointed that out during the campaign, so for the sake of looking good he threw one on. What if we, the military families, treated Obama the way the Liberal media treated Bush? What if our men and women stopped saluting him, and disrespected him for disrespecting us with such a cold-hearted plan to defraud us of what we so rightly deserve? What would they do to our soldiers then? What are we defending anymore is the question?
This is ABSOLUTELY WRONG!!! Who does Obama think he is Bush? I am very honored and proud of the vets that have so bravely and self sacrificially served this country for so long that I might have the freedom I have today. I am not rich and I don’t have any healthcare. I believe all military DESERVE free healthcare, dental and vision. They earned it. Nothing should be denied them after all they have done for all of us, that us includes Obama and all those on Capital Hill in case they have forgotten.
Saying our vets are abusing it by over using it? Let them go to the doctor everyday if they need to I say. Pull out of Afganistan and Iraq and then maybe you will have the money to cover their healthcare needs. I don’t see any members of Congress giving up any of their FREE healthcare! Why should they? It would be the right thing to do perhaps? Stop voting yourselves raises and give it to our men and women who have and do serve in the military and help cover their healthcare.
Obama made a lot of promises, he’s only been in power 7 weeks and now he wants to pull a Bush move? He and his people in the White House should be ashamed of themselves for doing this, even thinking about it. We have enough vets who are homeless do we need more? The cost of this to the vets will be harsh and devistating to many who are on fixed incomes and barely have the meager means to pay what they do now. Obama you said healthcare for everyone, vets are a part of everyone!
This MUST NOT be allowed to happen!!! Write everyone you can, every representative or congress person in your state. Pass the word to everyone you know, and newspapers, and radio, blog it, e-mail it, etc. In other words GET THE WORD OUT!
Open letter to President Barach Obama
Dear President Obama;
I have been a strong supporter for your election and really agree with most of your ideas for changes in our government. I recently received information which has caused me deep concern. In regard to your plan for every American to have affordable health care available to them, I fully agree. However, I do not agree that illegal aliens should be given equal benefits as American citizens. Furthermore, the money to cover that program should not be obtained by taking away the coverage that our retired military now depend upon. I strongly object to this.
My husband put his life at risk for this country for 22+ years in order to protect his country and to provide security and care for his family. I spent those 22+ years following him from base to base around the world caring for him and our family. Not only was I both mother and father to our children for most of that time, I also moved the family, baggage, and pets 35 times, from state to state and overseas as well. During those years, our income never exceeded $10,000.00 per year, which doesn’t leave much to be put away in savings for retirement or to send our children to college. The government promised to help us at his retirement with not only a small pension, but complete medical care coverage, for the rest of our lives, free of charge. As a father, I am sure you know how valuable medical care is while raising children, and perhaps some day you will understand how difficult it is to obtain and afford in your later years.
I regret to say that I lost my loving husband eight years ago and I am alone. I depend upon the government for my support and medical care in order to survive. I receive a small pension under the survivor benefit program but the most important support I receive is the Tricare for Life benefit. As one ages medical issues increase and without the Tricare for Life program, I would be unable to afford proper medical care. My husband served and sacrificed so that I would have access to these benefits in my sliver years.
From this prospective, do you think it is fair to take from those who gave so much for their country and give it to those who have contributed nothing?
I have nothing against the foreigners who come to this country legally and try to make a good living here, who work hard and become American citizens. My grandfather came to this country from Germany when he was just a boy. Alone, he worked hard to become an American citizen and raised his family here as Americans. I thank God, because of his hard work I was born a citizen of this great country of which I am extremely proud.
I volunteer at the USO and the Veterans Administration Hospital locally, in an effort to support our military service people in every way I can. For their sacrifices they and their families deserve the support of EVERY American, and most especially our Government.
I beg of you, please do not take this extremely valuable service away from those who have earned it, to provide for those who have not.
Sincerely, Velma J. Drier (formerly Mrs. Paul E. Drier USN)
Yes, we were promised free healthcare, for not only the member but his dependents as well, provided we served for at least 20 years. Yes, the government broke it promise to us. No, we didn’t concur in bailing-out wrong moves made by over-compensated company executives, and those citizens
who gladly assumed mega-mortgages they couldn’t afford. So, now that the
big give away is on, why not zap-it to those citizens who in the past have always
followed their leader’s orders, regardless of the harm which may befall them. Isn’t this the non-thinking group that complains the least? So, there it
is–let’s sock-it-to the military retirees as aren’t they most adapted to adversity?
John B. Cerullo, Ret, USAF
As an army wife, I don’t know what we’ll do if this is passed! A lot of military families have a hard time making ends meet as it is, having to pay for even a percentage of health care wouldn’t fit into our budget and we don’t even have children! And to take it away from our vets!! Has he lost his mind! These people put their lives on the line and are promised medical coverage for their time in service, and now it’s being withdrawn? I don’t think so.
Oh yes, if this is pushed through, along with his plan to abolish the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy I believe our military will slowly dwindle in numbers and the draft will be reinstated. What a great Commander in Chief we now how.
I’m a vet of 25 years, and I remember being told that Uncle Sam will take care of you until you die. I’m still alive and health care is a large concern to me. At the present I have coverage through my job, but I pray to GOD that I want need it in the near future. Cutting back would be devastating!!! President Obama, listen to us VETS!!!!!!!!!
I don’t agree with this as well. If he wants us to pay for our damn medical benefits then he should pay the troops the salary they deserve. My husband amongst other soilders are out there risking their lives everyday to get a measly pay!!
Other Civilian workers that are there overseas working for other companies are making way more then our soilders, and are doing alot less!!
Military retirees, get out the vaseline, drop your pants and grab your ankles, you are going to get it again…………………
Why does my comments require moderation. I was speaking my mind.
I’m sorry about that Gary, however due to the huge amount of spam that tends to be posted on blogs, we decided to moderate comments made by new visitors to the blog, before we post them. Now that you’ve had comments that have been approved, you’ll be able to comment from now on without moderation.
My husband and I are new to the military and we definitely live paycheck to pay check.
He joined so that we could receive benefits, while also serving his country,
Before the military he made MORE than he does now.
I think that this is complete crap.
No words can express how digusting this measure of economic proposed salvation is ! This dishonors all who have served as well as those who presently do with honor and heart. Such insanity measures what these politicians think of their Country’s Veterans and family’s. They can’t think for themselves so they blame it on the Vets to do their paying and thinking for them. When the next battle/War is starting who will they ask to defend them and who will be there to volunteer ? Such nonsense from Washington’s nonsensicals. How’s this for starters: let’s charge the Vets because they are stupid and then let’s give the crack head addict down the street Free medical care with the Vets money… yeah, that will work.
IM ONLY GOING TO SAY THIS… IF THEY TAKE THIS AWAY FROM MILITARY FAMILIES SHIT IS GOING TO HIT THE FAN. WHY ELSE WOULD YOU GO IN? SERIOUSLY. MY HUSBAND IS NOT GOING TO RE ENLIST. THEY ACT LIKE MILITARY MAKES SO MUCH MONEY. MY HUSBAND MADE MORE MONEY AT CRACKER BARREL THEN HE DOES IN THE MILITARY AND HE HAS ONE OF THE MOST DANGEROUS JOBS! IF THIS DOES GO TROUGH I REFUSE AND MY HUSBAND ALSO WILL NOT DEPLOY. WE DO NOT BELIEVE IN THIS MUSLIM COMMUNIST. I WILL NOT SUPPORT HIM IN HIS DECSION TO TAKE OUR BENEFITS THAT WE WORK SO HARD FOR!!!!!! FUCK OBAMA!
@Velma J. Drier -
I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS AND I THINK SOMETHING DRASTIC NEEDS TO BE DONE. MY HUSBAND IS EOD. WHICH IN SHORT IS BOMB SQUAD. EVERYDAY WHEN HE IS GONE I DO NOT KNOW IF HE WILL EVER COME HOME TO ME AGAIN. BUT I PRAY AND HOPE AND THIS BENEFIT CONTROVERSY IS CRAP. NOT ONLY DID OUR HUSBANDS EARN IT AND WORK HARD FOR IT BUT WE ALSO DESERVE IT.
This is rediculous… way to show your appreciation to those who protect our country!
I served our country for 28 1/2 years in the military and would be greatly disappointed if his happens. Our President who has no military background is willing to make light of this service by attacking the veterans benefits, this appalls me. Veterans dedicated their lives to this country and it’s safety and this is the thanks we get. Please stand up for our benefits, the benefits we were promised when we commit to a military career and the sevice to our country. Paul
Normand Paul Jr
Chief Master Sergeant U.S.A.F (retired)
Its time for us veterans to unite and go to washington and let the crooks know how we feel. I ask all veterans to organize a march on Washington D.C. I have given my 20 years of service. I guess Obama never had to feel terror of seeing his best buddy laying in agony with his bones protruding through his arms. this is only one of my nightmares from service to my country and now he wants to cut in are benefits.
Bill Marshall
Chief Petty Officer United States Navy
obama i worked for govt for 41 year and you 4 and you want to cut my benefits and you will get you fopr 8 yrs svc for life. gime a break. oi didn’t vite for you and will never vote for you. Mccain a great soldier should have won not some liberal you is givin g away the bank to a bunh of idiots in the finance worl who wat million dollar bonus for failure. 21 yrs in the military and 20 yrs civil svc i think i earned my benefits
I am a medic in the army, currently in Afghanistan. My Father is a retired Army Col. 28 years in the military, 2 tours in Vietnam. My husband is also in the Army and has deployed twice, and we haven’t been together in 2 years. This proposed bill to reduce medical benefits for soldiers is TOTAL BULLSHIT!!! I’m so furious after hearing about this from a friend today. Tri care is one of, if not the ONLY reason people stay in the military. If they take that away, i guarantee you there will be a drastic decline of the amount of people willing to stay in the military. Deployments are difficult, we don’t make a lot of money-the one comfort we have is knowing our families will be taken care of. This is absloutely unacceptable! I cannot believe that they want to give health care to illiegal aliens, and people that remain on welfare, mooching off of the system. It is so unfair; I can’t see why the government doesn’t see it, or do anything about it. My god, what has america become? I’ll remember this the next time I am working on a patient that comes in-and i’ll tell them to show their insurance card before I can help them. Fucking unbelievable.
Should the king and his court pass this, they will be responsible for my death. I was at the Nevada Test Site in the 60s and was over exposed to radiation and various heavy metals. I am on Oxygen 24/7 . I require annual tests for bryllium disease.This was a cold war effort program. God help us.
Active duty 1973 to 1997; and I herad it more than once, free medical for life and your family after 20 years of service. I did 24 and pay $460.00/yera and $12.00 co-payments as most of you do. Medicnes if Tricare approved are $3.00 - 9.00. If not approved then you have to pay the cost or try and find another medicine. Now, look at what a non-serving President wants to do. This is just not right. Call and write your Senators and Representatives and tell them to say, NO!
HMCS(USN)ret
@Karen -
I voted for change and I see that if this is the type of change we will be seeing then I think I voted wrong. You want military men and women to volunteer to put themselves on the line and then require they also pay for something that a benefit of that service. I work in law enforcement and have to pay for my medical but mine is a civilian job that i can walk away from when ever I want, not so much when you sign on the line.
My medical benefits was paid for up front. I was willing to give my life in defense of this country for 20 years,reguardless who was in office. I fulfilled my part of the contract and so should the government. If AIG management gets their million dollar bonuses because of their contract, so should the veterians…
Mike
I am very upset as well about having to pay nearly $3,000 a year out of pocket for Tricare for Life which would be $6,000.00 for my wife and I out of my Retired Pay.
This is devastating. We are both quite ill with serious medical conditions. MRS AIR FORCE MAY BE ABLE TO PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR HER FAMILY AND CHILDREN BUT ALL MILITARY DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO DO THIS. What about MEDS, ours are extremely expensive and would be many thousands a month if we had to pay for it. THERE ARE SEVERAL WEBSITES THAT ARE ASKING FOR NAMES TO IMPEACH OBAMA. I FOUND THE FOLLOWING ON THE INTERNET AND IT ALSO STATED THAT THEY NEED MORE STATES TO SIGN UP WITH THIS TWENTY, THEN THEY CAN FIRE EVERYONE IN CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENT AND HOLD NEW ELECTIONS. OBAMA SEEMS TO HATE THE MILITARY AND AMERICA. THIS IS OUR OPINION. I RETIRED IN 1983 AND HAD BEEN TOLD OVER AND OVER MY MEDICAL BENEFITS WOULD BE FREE FOR LIFE IF I STAYED IN. WE HAVE EARNED THESE BENEFITS, WE DID WHAT WE WERE ASKED WHILE MAKING $75.00 A MONTH WHEN I FIRST WENT IN AND NOT MUCH MORE RETIRING IN 1983. MANY FAMILIES WILL BE DEVASTED. IN GERMANY THERE WERE FAMILIES WHO COULD NOT AFFORD DIAPERS, THOSE WHO COULD NOT HAVE THEIR FAMILES JOIN THEM. ONE YOUNG MAN BROUGHT HIS WIFE AND CHILD OVER WITHOUT PERMISSION AND LIVED IN THE WOODS. THE CHILD BECAME ILL AND THEY WERE AFRAID TO TAKE CHILD TO THE DR AND THIS CHILD DIED. THESE PEOPLE WHO MAKE VERY LITTLE CAN ILL AFFORD TO PAY FOR MEDICAL CARE, FOOD WOULD BE LESS ON THEIR TABLES. MANY COULD NOT SEE A DOCTOR NOR GO TO A HOSPITAL. THE ILLEGAL ALIENS THOUGH WILL RECEIVE HELP IN SHELTER, FOOD, MEDICAL HELP WHILE THOSE WHO SERVE THEIR COUNTRY WHAT THEY HAVE WILL BE TAKEN FROM THEM AND GIVEN TO OTHERS. OUR PRESIDENT, OUR CONGRESS, OUR GOV’T IS NOT FOR US. WAKE UP, PEOPLE. TOO MANY BELIEVED WHAT OBAMA SAID , IT IS WHAT HE IS DOING. CHANGE HE PROMISED AND CHANGE WE GET. NO MATTER THIS IS NOT THE CHANGE ONE WANTED WHO VOTED FOR HIM. HERE IS THE LIST OF STATES I FOUND ON THE INTERNET:
Twenty states have put the Obama administration on notice by filing sovereignty resolutions. This is a trend that should continue. Here is a list of current states:
Alaska HR9
Arizona HCR2024
Arkansas HCR1011
Georgia HR280
Indiana SC37
Iowa SCR1
Idaho HJM4
Kentucky HCR168
Michigan HCR4
Minnesota HF997
Montana HB246
New Hampshire HCR6
New Mexico HJR27
Oklahoma HJR1003
Pennsylvania [TBA]
South Carolina H3509
South Dakota HCR1013
Tennessee HJR108
Texas HCR50
Washington HJM4009
Arizona is saying that if they can get 34 other states to join, they can reaffirm the constitution, elect a new congress and a new president. Wouldn’t that be something?! A peaceful and legitimate overthrow to restore democracy. Maybe in a roundabout way Obama will help to create positive change and bring this country back to the principles that made it great. Not exactly what he was thinking though!
[...] Proposed Tricare Cuts Could Cause Problems For Military Families and Retirees “…A recent report from the Congressional Budget Office details just one proposal that would increase out of pocket expenses for medical care for Military Families and Veterans, while others would lose their VA benefits altogether. Other proposals would raise Tricare fees, co-payments and deductibles. Veterans whose medical condition isn’t service related could end up no longer being eligible for VA medical care at all. While nothing has been approved at this juncture, the Congressional Budget Office director at this time is President-elect Obama’s choice to be his director of the Office of Management and Budget, and who led the work on this proposal, Peter R. Orszag, so it very possibly will have a very real, very devastating affect on our Troops and our Veterans….” [...]
Anyone who would take our tax dollars to pay for abortions and gives consideration to breaking a promiss to our military, is not someone I care to be associated with. Our Military have served their Country with honor and deserve everything that was promissed them.
It seems that the new president /congress do not care for the military and I said this to someone, their answer was they believed Obama hates America. It does appear hevongress seem to be hurting many Americans and America. About the VA, seems someone is talking out of both sides of their mouth. Many could not be seen by the VA for years, recently I read Obama wanted to open up the VA to all vets but also saying will be seeing fewer than before? This is confusing.! All military will be hurt with the health care issue!!! The retiree will be out nearly $3,000.00 out of pocket for a year and if a spouse $6,000.00!!! Many of these folk are elderly, many with medical problems as well, many unable to work and these costs will come out of retired pay. WHAT IS WRONG WITH OUR LEADERS IN WANTING TO PUNISH THIS GROUP OF PEOPLE MORE THAN ANY OTHER. Says he will lower our taxes! Is this a joke? Lower our taxes a few dollars and stick it to us in health care costs. They say nearly 5,000. dollars of this will be taken from Medicare>?>what? WHY SHOULD THIS BE WHEN NO OTHER GROUP’S MEDICARE WILL BE TAKEN FROM THEM? SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG. WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO GO TO THE DOCTOR AT TIMES NOR TO A HOSPITAL! I SAY THIS IS TOTALLY UNFAIR TO THE MILITARY, ACTIVE DUTY, RETIREES UNDER 65 AND TO THOSE OVER 65. IT APPEARS THOSE OVER 65 WILL BE SPENDING THE 3,000. OUT OF POCKET. THIS NEEDS TO BE STOPPED. EVERYONE NEEDS TO CALL THEIR CONGRESSMEN AND EXPRESS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THIS. NO MATTER WHAT THEY SAY, HEALTH CARE WAS PROMISED TO THOSE IN THE MILITARY FOR LIFE IF THEY WOULD STAY IN THE MILITARY. NOW THEY DENY THAT. THE MILITARY ARE DESPISED AND THIS IS THEIR WAY OF TELLING US. OUR COUNTRY WILL SOON BE UNRECOGNIZABLE. WE KNOW NOT WHAT THE POWERS THAT BE WILL PUT THEIR HAND TO NEXT. IT SEEMS THIS NEW CHANGE IS IN THE ARENA OF DESTRUCTION. GOD HELP US ALL.
This is so wrong why are the brave mem and women who put their lives on the line going to be punished. It is just not fair. Even people who are in jail get free medical. Talk about injustice for all those active soldiers, their families and our veterans. God help us all
The people at AIG and the people who ran the FAnnieMay and the FreddieMac programs have led this country to the brink of ruin. Yet thoese companies are being bailed out using our hard earned tax dollars. If the monyies spent and them had been used to address the medicial programs and problems of this country we would not be needing a health care system. We would be able to afford the give everyone free medical care. To try to burden the Veterans of this country who have fought for the freedoms of this and other countries at the request of our goverments and the needs of the people of the USA, is the greatest betrayal that I have ever seen. We did what we did as directed and were told that we would be and expected to be taken care of. Well so much for that. WRONG WRONG WRONG WRONG WRONG WRONG WRONG
Don’t Mess with my medical care. I served my country almost my whole life, 30 years of military, It is wrong and I hope that the Leaders of this country put a stop to it. You hear Senators and Congressmen, ladies. .
This is completely unfair! I am active duty Navy and I barely make enough money to pay for my wife and kid! How does the president expect me to pay these extra bills? I’m eligable for food stamps for the love of god! Why the hell would he think that cutting military benifits could be the best solution? Why not just get rid of the military all together? Cause that’s about the exact equivalent to this horse shit. The veterens who fought for his freedom, and mine as well, are getting screwed over the most! They were in when things in the military were much more dificult, and it’s unfair to them that this happening. “Its time for change” FUCK THAT! I’m already sick of the new president, how about he leaves the military alone! I joined to protect my country!
I AM A UNITED STATES SAILOR, I WILL SUPPORT AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND I WILL OBEY THE ORDERS OF THOSE APPOINTED OVER ME.
I REPRESENT THE FIGHTING SPIRIT OF THE NAVY, AND THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE ME TO DEFEND FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY AROUND THE WORLD.
I PROUDLY SERVE MY COUNTRY’S NAVY COMBAT TEAM WITH HONOR, COURGE, AND COMMITMENT! I AM COMMITED TO EXCELLENCE AND THE FAIR TREATMENT OF ALL.
HOOYAH!
FAIR TREATMENT. That is what it comes down to. I make below $30,000 a year, if you think it is fair what he’s doing…… tell my grandfathers, brother, father, uncles, cousins, my wife and my 3 year old why you think so……..
FC3 Jackson, Patrick B. USN (Active Duty)
Amen to that…….@w s -
Belay that last one….. I was tring to comment on someones view…… I dont want this like everyone else.
Have you lost yourMind BARACK HUSSIEN OBAMA. pUT COMBAT GEAR ON AND GO FIGHT WITH THE TROOPS TO PROTECVT THE FREEDOM OF THE UNITED STATES INSTEAD OF HIDING BEHIND YOUR PRECIOUS BLUE SUIT.
Jim Karakos, Master Chief United States Navy Retired
This doesn’t surprise me at all. The government lies without thinking about it to the point where it seems to be acceptable…by everyone. We just smirk and take it. They lie in the future, past ,and present tense. When my wife and I joined the AF in 1978 one of the “perks” for enduring the military lifestyle for 20 years was free healthcare - in essence it’s not free, we paid for it for 20 long years.
The government and Wall Street can go to hell
I am a widow of a retired Veteran, It is wrong to take what they worked for and suffered suring war time for the famileys to have a benifit when they are gone, He was disabled. Could the people thata want to do this live on less than six or seven hundred a month??
I am appalled to find out that our government is even thinking of cutting the health care benefits of the military before their own.
They better not mess with their benefits. Our military deserves more than we can ever hope to give them.
Don’t take away what we are able to give them.
Stop finding new ways to destroy hope in this country,
stop creating new ways to destroy empathy for each other.
if i was military, i’d question my decision to fight for a country
that couldn’t even make sure my kids and my health was
taken care of, especially if i’ve lost life, limb, friends,
brothers, fathers, everyone.
Since you’ve found the bottom reaches of inhumanity,
stop digging to new depths. how low is our government
trying to go?
I spent 26 years in the military, 22 in the Air Force. I like every onee else was told that I would have medical coverage for me and my family for free the rest of my life. I am now 60% disabled and bearly holding my own. I would like to see the people in our washington funny farm put on social security and those with litigtions caarges against themm should be releaved od duty with no pay or benifites, If a G.I. had charges against them they would be discharged with no benifits.. Some one needs to get there head out??
Shame on all military members who voted for this non-vet. I have multiple friends who voted for this pig and they said that things would get better… we fought time after time about what would happen if he were to be elected.
Well for all you people, I told you so just doesn’t seem to cut it…. but I’ll say it anyway! I TOLD YOU SO!!
Even if you didn’t agree with McCain on everything he was pro-military and the lesser of the two evils!
My mother and father are both vets, as is my sister! My brother in-law is aircrew USN, my husband is an MT for an SSBN, and my brother is entering the marines this summer as an officer. I have never been in the military, but I have earned my chevrons for patrols survived. The military has been the center of my life for as many years as I am old. My husband had planned on being a lifer , but with recent changes to our military, our current plan is to get out and get far away from the bases.
I wonder if the military members who helped to vote him in to office are still standing by him now. We can barely make our mortgage but now we get to pay half of our medical bills too.
I wonder if WIC can write me a check for that too, while I am there to pick up my food stamps?
Change we can believe.
Our so called commandor in chief is a big joke. As a wife of a Navy retired Chief we spent 20 years all over this country and he was gone every year for 6-7 months. And now you want to take away our heatlth care for such as it is, there are people I know who have retired and still can’t pay the co-pay to even get there medical care. Broken promises as they all say is true. I bet the prez would not give up his new health care and for his family. Mr. Obama is the biggest mistake this country has ever made. God help us all.
this is the same old government all kinds of prmises are made during election time but after the party is over they stick it to you.Iserved for 24 years but all the promise,and bull no one whos right or wrong here again our leaders speak with forked tounged, Now all the promises, are wars and helping other countrys Ladies and Gentleman whats wrong with this picture? I WOUNDER. OH YES THE BAIL OUTS I FORGOT THAT WAS A VERY SMART MOVE BY OUR LEADERS,
BUT THY DO NOT HAVE TO WORRY THEY WILL BE TAKEN FOR THE REST OF THIER LIFE NO PROMBLEM, I am just like others that have served it was just a big fat lie., NON VET have business in office .
After reading everyones comments and a lot of reflection, I have some comments to make and I will not ingratiate myself to many (if any) here.
First of all, I am a Viet Vet who worked hard, did what was asked, volunteered for everything that came my way and served proudly for the ideals I was raised on. I spent just under four years in the military service to my country and in those years I saw and experienced many wrongs and injustices perpetrated by individuals, by the military and by the government. If I saw these things so did you. How about those who got RIFed after 17, 18, 19, 19 and a half years? How about going for promotion exams and waiting month after month waiting for word of a promotion only to find out no one knows what happened to the test you took but you sure can take it again when the cycle comes around again? How about your pay just stopping and you have a family with kids and a newborn to feed and shelter? How about after months of getting a pittance of emergency funds, neighbors helping to feed the kids, exhausting the chain of command which forced the writing to Congressmen and Senators did the piddly pay start? How about being branded as a trouble maker and getting extra details for writing to those in government. I could go on but you get the idea. I am speaking for myself and for those I saw get the royal shaft by the very service they were dedicated to and by the very government they swore allegiance to.
I could go on and on but this rant is about how the government is thinking about screwing those who served once again. The operative words are “once again”. Those who have served must endure. Suck it up and do the best you can. That’s all you can do. For those who are thinking about serving for any length of time DON’T. If you do, then you are forewarned and you DON’T have cause to BITCH. Read your history. Don’t believe the movies that glorifies the military. The Veteran has never NEVER fared well by the government.
America is giving away everything to the United Nations anyways so let them defend America.
Jon Heckendorf
Viet Nam
11-69 to 12-70 (USAF)
04-72 to 1973 (MACVSOG-DOS Advisor VNAF 427th TS)
After reading everyones comments and a lot of reflection, I have some comments to make and I will not ingratiate myself to many (if any) here.
First of all, I am a Viet Vet who worked hard, did what was asked, volunteered for everything that came my way and served proudly for the ideals I was raised on. I spent just under four years in the military service to my country and in those years I saw and experienced many wrongs and injustices perpetrated by individuals, by the military and by the government. If I saw these things so did you. How about those who got RIFed after 17, 18, 19, 19 and a half years? How about going for promotion exams and waiting month after month waiting for word of a promotion only to find out no one knows what happened to the test you took but you sure can take it again when the cycle comes around? How about your pay just stop and you have a family with kids and a newborn to feed and shelter? How about after months of getting a pittance of emergency funds, neighbors helping to feed the kids, exhausting the chain-of-command which forced the writing to Congressmen and Senators did the piddly pay start? How about being branded as a trouble maker and getting extra details for writing to those in government. I could go on but you get the idea. I am speaking for myself and for those I saw get the royal shaft by the very service and government we were dedicated to and by the very government we swore our allegiance.
I could go on and on but this rant is about how the government is thinking about screwing those who served - ONCE AGAIN! The operative words are, “once again”.
Those who are serving - GET OUT! If you stay in, then you elect to suffer anything the government dishes out to you. Those who have served - ENDURE! Suck it up and do the best you can. That’s all you can do. For those who are thinking about serving - DON’T! If you do, then you are forewarned and you DON’T have cause to BITCH. Read your history. Don’t believe the movies that glorifies the military. The Veteran has never NEVER fared well by the government - NOT EVER!
Whatever happened to the greater good and sacrifice by serving your country? Operative words again, “serving”. Serve and quit bitching. Whining only dishonors yourself and the cause.
I answered the call; I served; I got out; I went on with life! Why don’t you do the same?
America is giving away everything to the United Nations anyways so let them defend America.
Jon Heckendorf
Viet Nam
11-69 to 12-70 (USAF)
04-72 to 1973 (MACVSOG/DOS Advisor VNAF)
Apparently the Moderator doesn’t like my comments and viewpoint on this subject.
I must be the only one here to have fought for the Constitution and its First Amendment? And you all want to know what is wrong. Look within yourselves before looking outside for someone and something to blame for your woes.
Jon Heckendorf
Viet Nam
11-69 to 12-70 (USAF)
04-72 to 1973 (MACVSOG/DOS Advisor VNAF)
Sorry Jon that I didn’t make a reply or approve your comments before now, however, I was at work and am unable to access the blog from my computer at work. One thing you’ll find here, is that for the most part, anyone’s opinion is welcome here unless your comments are either a) extremely vulgar or b) doing nothing more than to incite major problems on the blog. The reason we have the moderation in place is because unfortunately the spammers are out in full force and will fill the blog with inappropriate comments. Once one of your comments have been approved however, you can post comments from then on, without moderation.
Thanks for your service and thanks for stopping by A Soldier’s Mind.
in 1972 at our pre-departure briefing in Vietnam it was suggested that we not wear our uniform due to the “unrest” in my country. In the WW2 tradition I said; “NUTS” and wore my uniform. My reward was to get spit on in the LA terminal. I chased the guy but he had nothing and I had a 40 pound duffle bag.
IN 1991 on a vacation to NYC wife & I were waiting in the line to catch the ferry to Ellis Island. Far up in the front of the line we heard applause and cheers that spread back to where we were as a group of officers and sailors walked by from the arriving ferry. My wife leaned over and said; “A little different from the welcome you got 20 years ago.”
So we have now come full circle to spitting on our veterans AGAIN.
I fear for my veterans and my country. It is simply unbelievable that we have sunk this far in only 120 days!
Prayer works. Every night hit your knees and pray for our country, our military and our families.
John F. DuPriest ,Maj USAF (Retired)
Korea AND Vietnam
397 combat flying hours
(Gotta be pretty dumb to get into TWO wars)
I served 20-years and retired from the military. I’m also a disabled veteran. But I’m one of the lucky ones who continues to work for a large coperation. Several years ago the company that I work for stopped offering tricare supplement I was buying it in case of emergency. Congress passed a bill that companies were not allow to offer tricare supplemement, etc… Even when you try to do everything right, and you try to get ahead of the system, the govement finds another way to mess things up. Tricare is cheap and affordable terrible. You cannot get appointments on time, sometimes weeks, you never get to see your service provider because he/she might be deployed. Your stuck with praticioners, and by the time you get an answer at the appointment desk to see the provider, and then wait serveral weeks for the referral letter, once you get the referral letter call the doctor on the referral letter to make an appointment; you might as well walk into the emergency room.
The Texas National Guard, The United States Army and finally
The United States Navy…..one of the greatest incentives spouted by
each was “free healthcare for life”.
When I retired, it was imperative to retire near a military installation for
various reasons, the most important being the free health care promised.
Then came TriCare and the enrollment costs and, again, that was bearable. Then
TriCare for Life..free to the over 65 on Medicare…but ONLY free if we
subscribe to Medicare Part B, which at the moment is about $200 a
month for my wife and myself….so NOT exactly free.
There is speculation that retirees are taking advantage of Tricare for Life
by making ‘monthly’ pilgramiges to various hospitals in order to enjoy
coffee klatches with other retirees, eventhough they are not in need of
medical care. Well, I say, if this is true, and this is a major concern,
there must be some easy way to curtail this rather than tacking on such
a substantial fee increase to everyone. Personally, I don’t like going
to the doctorat all , but at 73 it may not be a bad idea to get a yearly check-up.
So I say to our President and our so called ‘representatives’ in Congress;
“Don’t tread on us” please. You, your parents and your grandparents enjoy
the lives they are living because folks like us gave 20 years to protecting
you, your freedoms, your lifestyles.
If the Tri-Care program is bankrupting our government….’BAIL IT OUT!”
You in the U.S. Congress could take a lesson from us. We Veterans
can “get along”with one another.
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