Does anyone else find it ironic that when George W. Bush was encouraging American citizens to see the future of Iraq through the suffering of American soldiers, he also saw fit to allow a $1.8 billion reduction for the Veterans Administration?The purpose of the VA is to care for our veterans of war. Surprisingly, it costs money in the form of tax dollars.Somehow, this all gets lost in the name-calling, sound bite era in which we live. Health care, roads, schools, and wars all cost money. This money must come from somewhere.If the Bush Administration wants to keep cutting taxes and keep America strong, doesn't his administration at least owe an explanation to those who have fought for America in much more relevant wars why they are not receiving the benefits to which they are entitled for their sacrifices?It seems sort of unpatriotic to me to take money away from our veterans now, while this administration is hoping that a new generation of American men and women will be willing to die for its lack of foreign diplomacy and honesty during the prelude to war, and its subsequent lack of humility, candor, and contrition for its dishonesty in our post-war situation.But what do I know about patriotism? I can't stand the Gov. Bush administration.Matthew HoilandBloomington
