Military pay scales for enlisted members continue to be pathetic for new recruits with families. Thank God for our military that the unemployment rate is where it is. This makes military duty a way to provide an income for someone who is struggling and has a family to feed. Shockingly, a family of three in the military on his or her initial enlistment can easily qualify for state aid such as WIC and food stamps. This is the same as it was 50 years ago.

Why do veterans returning from deployment with injuries have to rely on Wounded Warrior and other similar organizations to help them have a quality life after discharge from active duty? What these organizations contribute is outstanding, but where does the responsibility lie? Our government sent them there and should be accountable. The VA does what they can but cannot do it all. Take a look at what a veteran who is 100 percent disabled makes a year, not very much to raise a family.

I applaud all those who served and I am proud to be a veteran. I just want our country to step up and pay attention to the needs of our military and their families. Fifty plus years has been long enough.

Shame on you, United States of America.