To the Editor:
The recent decision by the Federal Veterans Administration not to renew the “Veterans Readjustment Counseling Contract” with the Martha’s Vineyard Community Services will, in my opinion, have serious implications for Island veterans and their families. This sudden and unexpected change may lead to a disruption in or loss of critically important support services for our Island veteran community.
Over the last thirty years, my family and I have been grateful recipients of outstanding counseling services provided by Tom Bennett through MVCS. Tom’s professionalism, compassion and comprehensive understanding of veterans issues is unparalleled. He is an Island treasure who has been a beacon of hope for countless veterans. To, without warning, suddenly terminate his highly successful veterans counseling program is, in my view, unconscionable and extremely ill advised.
I am in agreement that there is obvious inefficiency and waste in the federal budget. Thoughtful corrective remedy is necessary and appropriate. However, cutting vital counseling services for Vineyard veterans, who have honorably served their country, been placed in harm’s way and born the price of freedom, does not seem to be in the spirit or tradition of the America I know and love.
Steve Maxner
West Tisbury
I agree with Steve Maxner,the VA IS THE PROBLEM !
The VA tried to make us go away years ago I and lots of Vietnam Vets saw how bad we were treated and wanted nothing to do with us UNTIL they started to lose FUNDING because we were not using them so they HAD TO reach out to us !
There are fine dedicated people in the VA but like we say in the u.s.m.c there is always the 10 % that ruin it for everyone ! Words can’t explain how much Tom Bennett did for me.
The North Hampton PTSD unit was one of the best things that happened to me thanks to Tom.
I have had great care from the Togus VA and the Bangor VA ,but i keep hearing how much WE are going to lose !
Clearly an important program on the island that has successfully supported veterans for decades. However the article assumed that only 250 vets participated out of 1,000 and it seemed to indicate that was a small number. On the contrary, I believe a 25% penetration rate is outstanding. Especially with their front door being open and outreach available around the calendar.
I am sure no other region in the state helps such a large percentage of vets with counselling services
Well done!
Our job is to help keep you open. I’m calling today
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