Opinion

There are options to honor all veterans

Posted October 13, 2016 1:00 am

I read with interest David Kumpula's letter pertaining to his perceived slight of some military veterans whom he identified as serving between Sept. 2, 1945, and Dec. 26, 1991.

Illinois already makes available a license plate that identifies all veterans. This plate is in addition to plates that identify veterans of World War II (Dec. 7, 1941 - Dec. 31, 1946), Korean War (June 25, 1950 - Jan. 31, 1955), and Vietnam War (Feb. 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975).

In addition to the above wars, veterans of World War I, the Lebanon/Grenada Actions (Aug. 24, 1982 - July 31, 1984), the Panama Action (Dec. 20, 1989 - Jan. 31, 1990) and all veterans who served from Aug. 2, 1990, until now are eligible for membership in the American Legion.

The Legion was formed pursuant to an Act of Congress and the dates of active duty service required for membership in the Legion were/will be established by Congress - not the Legion.

Those who served overseas during these periods of time may also be eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Mr. Kumpula's statement that no memorials exist to honor veterans who served during the Cold War with the USSR is incorrect. I invite him to visit the Palatine Veterans Memorial located in Community Park at the southwest corner of the intersection of Northwest Highway (Rt. 14) and East Wood Street. One of the five granite triangles specifically is engraved with "Dedicated to Those Who Served During Peace and War."

On behalf of the membership of Palatine American Legion Post 690 this opportunity is taken to advise all Daily Herald readers that Post 690 welcomes all veterans and guests in our club room for conversation and camaraderie.

Fred Hall

Palatine

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