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Old 10-11-2010, 09:39   #43
Saoirse
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Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: The Nam
Posts: 777
Quote:
Originally Posted by dennisw View Post
You are absolutely correct. However, wasn't this family the one who could not afford to travel to the ceremony until someone assisted them? I know it it inconceivable to many that a family could not or cannot afford to purchase a suit, etc. If they could not afford to travel to the White House, it's highly likely they could not afford a suit for the grandson. If they could afford it and chose not to dress in respectable attire, then they did not use good judgement. If they could not afford the appropriate attire, then appropriate attire should have been provided.

If the family of a man who was awarded the MOH cannot afford a trip to Washington or a new suit, we are a scandalous nation not deserving of the men and women who displayed such courage on our behalf.
Dennis, you make an excellent point! Especially the one I highlighted. I have a friend who is a CMoH recipient for his heroic actions in Vietnam. Because of his injuries there and after saving the life of a little girl that was almost run over, he cannot work like most of us. The money he receives from the VA was barely enough to get by, now it is nothing in this econmy. However, by the grace of God and the help of others, he is now a motivational speaker and travels the country. He is the most humble man I have ever met. When I met him, I was shocked and appalled that as such a great hero, there was not some sort of monetary award (I was rather young and naive then).
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A tyrant will always find a pretext for his tyranny ~ Aesops Fables; The Lamb and the Wolf

Am fear nach gleidh na h-airm san t-sith, cha bhi iad aige 'n am a' chogaidh
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Arms discourage and keep the invader and plunderer in awe, and preserve order in the world as well as property... Horrid mischief would ensue were the law-abiding deprived of the use of them. Thomas Paine
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