I was listening to Forum on KQED radio this morning and heard a sobering statistic. It’s estimated that 25% of the homeless population is made up of veterans. Not much of a way to honor our war vets, is it? It’s bad enough to hear the horror stories about disabled vets from our current two wars having to fight for reasonable medical benefits. But you shouldn’t have to live under a bridge or sleep in a park when you’ve put your life on the line for your country. I realize it’s way more complicated than that, but at some level, it should be quite simple. There are some wonderful organizations providing services — food, shelter, healthcare. But so many slip through the cracks.

Some of the homeless I see around my community hold signs that reference their service — “homeless vet needs help” or the like. But there are numerous others who I assume are vets, but don’t know for sure. Take George, for example. I think of him as the unofficial greeter of Menlo Park, a local fixture. Everyone knows George. From his perch outside Peet’s Coffee, he chats it up with passers by. I look forward to his greetings as I head in for my morning fix. But a couple of weeks ago, George stopped showing up. I’ve asked around, but haven’t found anyone who knows what’s up. I suspect he’s a vet but it’s only a hunch. George, wherever you are, I’m thinking of you this Veteran’s Day and wishing you better days ahead.

Community, homeless vets, KQED, Menlo Park, Peets Coffee, Veterans Day