In this Edition

“Ideas that matter, since 1965.“

Volume 55, Number 5

Politics & Perspective

4 VA Update: Our Work for Veterans is Never Done By Jerry Moran

Our country made a binding pact with our servicemembers. Upholding our end of the bargain is a moral obligation.

6 Equipping Our Veterans for the Next Season of Service By Brad Wenstrup

Too many of these servicemembers struggle to have their talents fully understood and utilized amidst transitioning back to civilian life.

7 Burn Pits Cannot be the Next Agent Orange By Mike Bost

Otherwise-healthyveteransaresufferingfrom uncommon cancers that may be result of exposure to open-air burn pits. The time for action is now.

Cover Story - “What Veterans Day Means to Me”

11 “You kept us safe. You did your duty.” By Dan Sullivan

Members of the United States military have done more to liberate humankind from oppression and tyranny ... than any other force in human history.

12 “Wehonorveterans’serviceandsacrifice for this great nation.” By Tony Gonzales

There is something incredibly unique about those who sacrifice so much to serve our country – who choose to run towards conflict in the name of freedom.

Cover Story (cont’d.)

14 “There is no greater calling than service to country” By Chrissy Houlahan

There is no greater calling than service to one’s nation. And if there’s one thing veterans understand, it is that service never stops.

16 “We remember and honor the sacrifices, both large and small.” By Van Taylor

At one point in every veteran’s life, they made the tough decision to leave behind the comforts of home to fight for a cause bigger than themselves.

Articles

18 The Mental Health Challenges of Veterans By Tammy Barlet

Transitioning from active duty brings many challenges and mental health stressors.

20 How Veterans View the U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan By Kim Parker

Like the public, they are deeply divided along party lines.

22 We Said We’d Never Forget: Will We? By Joseph Reagan

For the first time in 20 years, we celebrate Veterans Day in relative peace. Sections

3 In this Edition

24 By the Numbers - “Who are America’s Veterans?”

Publisher The Ripon Society

President Jim Conzelman

Editorial Board Thomas Tauke Michael Castle Erik Paulsen Billy Pitts Pamela Sederholm Judy Van Rest Jim Murtha John Feehery

Editor Lou Zickar Deputy Editor Kyle Chance

Advertising Coordinator Autumn Reed

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