by Joyce Thornton
It is truly hard to believe that 2005 is gone and that we are now in the midst of another year of new challenges and means by which we can continue to support the blinded veterans among us.
One of the emerging challenges for many of us involves our support of the blinded Iraqi veterans and their families. The same would apply to those who may have served in Afghanistan recently. How can we sincerely and effectively lend such support? If and when we encounter them, we must make an effort to reach out to their families as well. One way to reach out is to encourage family members and friends to join the BVA Auxiliary so that support of these wonderful veterans can be maximized.
In Florida, BVAA has been busy distributing information to blinded veterans about the Auxiliary scholarships. Throughout the year we hold raffles at our luncheons to raise money to assist spouses and children in their pursuit of higher education goals. If there are families of Iraqi veterans who need and are eligible for this kind of help, it is our responsibility as Auxiliary members to find them and provide them with the appropriate information.
Our work on behalf of blinded veterans from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm continues. Nevertheless, we need to bring the BVA story to Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) blinded veterans so that they will be adequately assisted in their efforts to be independent and productive. These veterans undoubtedly have a place in the future of BVA.
The sacrifices made and labor of love demonstrated by present BVA and BVAA members must be matched by those blinded in our most recent conflicts. As Auxiliary members, let us be on the alert for them. They need our help and we need theirs.
At the Southeastern Guide Dog School in Palmetto, Florida, a program entitled “Paws for Patriots” has been adopted. The program is designed to help any blinded veteran from Iraq to receive a guide dog if the veteran indeed chooses such mobility. The Lions Club is backing this program and is just one example of the many creative ways in which newly blinded veterans can be supported and guided to a brighter future.
I’m sure there are many other things we all can do. We must make our talents, and our desires to serve, equal to the present needs of our most brave fellow citizens. I challenge us all to make things happen! |
