Do more than thanking veterans

Dear editor,

Butte Rep. Jim Keane told a joint subcommittee Jan. 27 it should not just thank veterans for their service but it should “do something.” He wanted the members, and the Legislature, to pass an infrastructure bill that would fund, among other things, a veterans home in southwest Montana.

There are approximately 100,000 veterans living in Montana. That’s approximately 10 percent of our citizens who have served our state and country with honor.

I served nearly eight years in the U.S. Army as an enlisted soldier and had two combat tours in the Middle East. I am lucky enough not to need the Veteran’s Administration or any other services. But others do and I strongly support anyone and any effort that supports those who need them.

Not only will this assisted-living facility in Butte provide much-needed care and shelter to our veterans, it will provide approximately 100 jobs for those providing medical care and assistance to our veterans. We cannot leave them behind, especially as the Trump administration puts veterans out in the cold.

We must “do something” by investing in Build Montana and the Southwest Montana Veterans Home. That is the easiest way to show our thanks.

Josh Manning

Helena