To the Editor:

For some years now, these poker runs sponsored by the American Legion and the Wounded Warrior Group occur for the benefit of the veterans who have returned from combat with many physical and mental disabilities. 

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs, in my opinion, has turned a blind eye on these victims of dubious wars.  While there is no doubt in my mind that these runs are certainly well intentioned, wouldn't it be more effective for these groups to network with like groups nationwide and descend on Washington, D.C. and become a united presence at the Veterans Affairs headquarters?

It would accomplish two objectives, the first bringing this travesty mainstream to the American public that the mainstream media largely ignores and force Veterans Affairs to do the right thing and help these for the most part forgotten veterans get the care that they need.

John Kilcher

Knox