Family of military vet thanks Hunt, Jaquet
There are times when a mere thank you does not express one's gratitude. The compassion, understanding and assistance that I recently received regarding my father's military service will never be forgotten.
The files with the U.S. War Department show that my father, Everett McNabb served gloriously in battle during the Korean War. He was shot six (6) times and was held as a Prisoner of War (POW) for 19 months. He paid such a costly sacrifice with honor and dignity to ensure our freedom. I feel no words that I say or tendering this letter would ever express how proud he was to have served this great country. He recently passed away here in Anderson County and per his final wishes was given a full military funeral.
As with military tradition; he had requested a headstone signified with the POW markings. When I attempted to fulfill this final request; I was met with government bureaucracy. Veterans and veterans' families deserve the highest levels of respect from our elected officials. I called the VA National Office and was informed to contact my local congressman. I called U.S. Congressman Chuck Fleishmann's office and left several messages. He nor his office staff have yet to call me back some three (3) weeks later. His website even states that veteran issues are important to him and his work in Congress. However, my family has found his commitment to veterans futile and his words meaningless.
However, it was with the assistance of the County VA Affairs Officer Leon Jaquet (USN Retired) and local attorney Brian Hunt (Captain - U.S. Army Reserves) that this matter was finally resolved.
On behalf of my family, I extend a sincere heartfelt thank you to Brian Hunt and Leon Jaquet.
Your tireless work, dedication to community service and commitment to my father's memory will never be forgotten.
My father will rest in peace and his cherished memory will live forever in the hearts of our family.
With solemn pride and sincere appreciation for all veterans.
Everett Eugene McNabb