'Sole Survivors' Bill Signed Into Law
President Bush has signed into law a bill that will ensure veterans benefits are awarded to "sole survivors" in military families. Known as the Hubbard Act, the legislation is inspired by a family from California's Central Valley that lost two of three sons in the Iraq war. After his brothers died in combat, Spc. Jason Hubbard left the Army under a military policy that allows sole surviving siblings to be discharged early. He soon found that the Army was denying him benefits he would otherwise have been entitled to. The measure ensures that Hubbard and those in his position receive the same benefits as others who honorably leave the military, including health care, educational support and separation pay that compensates for inability to continue service.
Much like "Saving Private Ryan" there are times when the military will put family or the continuity of a family first. It is a shame that we forget those who served honorably. Should we allow 'Sole Survivors' to receive 100% benefits, or the reduced benefits that National Guard and reserve troops receive? What about widows and their children?
Read the Full Story
Other Opinions
They deserve it, no doubt about it.
Sound Off!!
|