Published: July 02, 2008 08:55 am      

Our View: Lots of news regarding veterans

Today’s front page has plenty of news concerning local veterans. One article details work that continues to maintain and improve the Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park in Mt. Vernon. A committee continues to raise funds to assure that local veterans are paid proper tribute at the memorial.

Then there was the visit of U.S. Rep. John Shimkus. The congressman met with the Veterans Advisory Committee Tuesday morning, along with the new acting director of the Marion Veterans Affairs Hospital. In addition, Shimkus reported to the veterans group issues ongoing in Washington, D.C. that are of interest to them here in Southern Illinois.

Shimkus then took part of the grand opening of the new Mt. Vernon VA Clinic at 4101 N. Water Tower Place in Mt. Vernon. The facility is an upgrade for veterans who receive medical attention locally.

We congratulate the VA on its new facility while urging lawmakers such as Shimkus to continue working with veterans groups and wish luck to the committee working to maintain and improve the city park’s memorial to local veterans.