Welcome from the Author

Welcome to "Speaking Out For Veterans". The author of this blog is a "Vietnam Era" veteran who served honorably in the US Navy during the Vietnam War, and  notice I said war and not conflict, because to all that served we know what it was.

I am putting together this blog in an effort to hear the voice of all veterans and to see that they are heard. Recently (Refer to the next post) there has been a flurry of news reports, both on TV and through the Radio Heads commenting on the treatment and conditions of our VA Hospital system around the world. I personally have been utilizing the VA Medical System for the last ten or so years for my basic and specialized care, so I feel I have the experience and the knowledge to assist other vets in the perils with the system. As a service connected disabled veteran, I see up close and personal the problems that I myself and others have with the system each time they visit, and recently I am becoming more and more appalled at how our new incoming veterans are being treated.

You are probably asking yourself just what gives this guy the insight and knowledge to review and make judgments regarding treatment as well as look at and rate the facilities proper? That is an easy question, I am a Certified Safety Executive with well over thirty years examining and solving problems related to all facets of industry as well as the health care system in general. I do this by carrying the title of Certified Safety Executive, Certified Haz-Mat Technician, and as a Certified Health Care Safety Professional. With these credentials I keep a vigilant eye on what’s happening and what can be done to fix the problem. I am currently undergoing treatment for my back, having already gone through surgery several times, and as I undergo the treatments it will give me more of an insight regarding  how I am being treated against other veterans in the system. Hopefully this will give me the insight and view to get directly in Washington’s face should it become necessary. That’s where all of you come into the picture. It is your chance to let me know how you feel, and your experiences with the system so I can be that voice we so sorely need with the VA System. Please, take the time to share your experience with the system as well as you horror stories. Only by collecting the information will I be able to reach out and make a difference.