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VETERAN’S REPORT

On this past Memorial Day I hope that everyone took time out at
3:00 PM to observe the moment of silence in honor of all the
Veterans who have served, died, and those who are still serving this great country of ours. I started out the day marching in a Memorial Day parade with my fellow Legionnaires of Post 275. Later that day I took my family to Comerica Park to catch a Tigers game. The announcer at the park asked everyone to stand for a moment of silence at 3:00 PM to honor our veterans. Upon hearing those spoken words, I felt a great sense of pride. On that day I didn’t don my Tiger ball cap, but instead I wore my "Once A Marine, Always A Marine" cap. Once the moment of silence was completed, I could hear people all around me yelling out Semper Fi and bellowing out the motivational Marine shout Oorah!

Free Agent Orange Help Line Established: Vietnam War veterans now have a nationwide toll-free help line to answer their questions about Agent Orange exposure, health care and benefits.

The new toll-free # (800) 749-8387, is part of continuing efforts to reach the Veterans who served there. Callers can speak to directly to VA representatives Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST, or access a 24-hour automated system. Veterans can leave voice-mail messages to have information sent to them or listen to recordings about exposure to Agent Orange benefits, health care and disability compensation. The VA has also developed a specific Agent Orange Web page at

www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/benefits/herbicide. For general info on VA benefits and programs, visit VA’s Web site at www.va.gov.

I hope everyone remembered to fly his or her flags on June 14th, Flag Day. So until next Memorial Day, Love Life, Liberty, and Family... And If You Love Your Freedom... Thank a Veteran!! But let’s not wait until next Memorial Day, it’s too far away!