Persian Gulf War Veterans

Secretary Edward Derwinski, a former congressman, spoke about the condition and role of veterans hospitals across the United States. Under the law, the Veterans Administration is the backup system for the military in the event of large numbers of casualties. He said that it was amazing, though, how few injuries and deaths occurred. The veterans' benefits counselors will still be mobilized to the bases and reserve stations to help the returning soldiers should they be leaving active duty in the near future. He talked about the need for a coordinated effort to meet the troops as they come home. His office is working with the White House to make sure the tributes occur in concert with a national effort. close