Have you ever noticed that in an election year, many resolutions, problems, and possible solutions are always promised by the person running for any political office, but once actually in the office, they are left by the wayside? One can sometimes wonder if the candidate actually reads and understands what he/she is promising to accomplish if the sought for office is obtained.

Well, there is one organization which does not fall in this category, and that is the VA. Whenever an issue comes up, they are like a dog gnawing on a bone….never giving up until the meat of the matter is actually resolved! They are willing to continue the “fight’ even if it takes years!

The particular resolution being referred to in this issue is prohibiting the repurposing of Military Awards and Decoration. The subject wants law enforcement organizations in the state of Florida to discontinue the practice.

Military awards, decorations and ribbons are unmatched in importance because they are not just for show. The awards stand for a higher value because the appreciation and honor coming from them is a reflection of extended efforts by a military service member’s actions, achievements and service. These decorations are a symbol of respect and dignity and considered a very special way of paying tribute.

Many law enforcement organizations in the state of Florida use military awards and ribbons which have been heralded for different reasons some of which include matters of convenience, cost (buying in bulk from an Army/Navy surplus store lowers the cost considerably) and the hope people won’t notice that they came from a military supply. Veterans don’t feel this is at all appropriate and want it discontinued!

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of District 13, of which the VFW Post 4174 located in Lehigh Acres are members, support the enactment of legislation to prohibit state law enforcement organizations from using the military awards and ribbons for their own use. It is felt they should design their own. The Veterans of our Post 4174 in Lehigh Acres are in agreement with the US Army retired LTC who is submitting this particular resolution.

For more information, stop in at 25 S. Homestead Road and talk to any of our veteran members. It would be interesting to learn how many of them agree with this idea. We are open Sunday through Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. You’ll be glad you did!