Letting military down

I am constantly gratified by the outpouring of support for our veterans and active-duty military personnel, but at the same time I am concerned with congressional actions that undermine them. You see, most congressional support for the military is focused on construction and procurement contracts that benefit their districts and bring them votes.

Meanwhile, the budget bill Congress recently passed limited active-duty pay raises (which were already less than inflation), cut support for base commissaries and increased the cost of medical care for dependents and retirees.

You would think that our senior military leadership would stand up for their people, but sadly not. They are far more interested in shiny new airplanes and other new toys.

The only thing that will keep Congress from gutting our military once again is our vocal opposition. So please take a moment this holiday season as you reflect on the blessings made possible by the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform to tell your representatives that you expect them to take care of military people first.

Bob Mielbrecht

Spokane