New Stories Of Sacrifice

Saturday, March 1, 2003

New Stories Of Sacrifice Tell A Familiar Tale (NAPSA)—Personal stories from Operation Iraqi Freedom 2003 attest to the courage, skill and valor of young Americans who have shown, once again, their willingness to sacrifice themselves for the freedoms and values they cherish. Many thoughts are invariably focused on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice—that of = 3 Na their lives. No less significant are those who have suffered permanent physical wounds. They must never be forgotten or neglected. Still others have suffered emotional stress brought on by the trauma of combat. The sacrifice of one’s sense of well-being and security is something that cannot be taken lightly, either. The Blinded Veterans Association—also known as BVA—recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans and their families in every past and present effort to preserve American ideals. “Our veterans have kept their promises,” said BVA president Joe Burns in a speech at Arlington National Cemetery. Said Burns, “When our country has called our veterans have answered and done the nation’s bidding. It is now our duty and obligation to keep our promises to them—to look after our veterans’ needs.” BVA wasandis the only veterans service organization exclu- sively dedicated to serving America’s blind and visually impaired veterans. Veterans don’t have to The Blinded Veterans Association recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans and their families in past and present conflicts. lose their vision during military service to qualify for BVA assistance. Membership is not a prerequisite for any service. The organization also represents the interests of blinded veterans before the legislative and executive branches of government, both nationally and locally, and encourages blinded veterans to participate in VA blind rehabilitation programs, including sports activities. It counsels blinded veterans, links them with benefits, services and job opportunities and serves as an advocate for blinded veterans in the VA claims process. BVAalso facilitates friendship and moral support for blinded veterans in regional groups throughout the United States. To learn more, visit the Web site at www.bva.org or call toll free 1-800-669-7079.