My name is Stew Burns, I am a United States Air Force Desert Storm disabled veteran. I recently began receiving medical benefits from the VA, Veterans Affairs Hospital in Fargo, N.D. I was honorably discharged in 1998. I had an injury while I was active duty that still affects me today.
I was so slow to apply for VA benefits because I had heard so many negative comments about the level of care and the poor conditions their hospitals and clinics are in. For me it took more than 10 years of my wife prodding me to finally make the effort to apply, go through the appointments and fill out packet after packet of forms. I wasn't surprised by the process, being prior military, that will probably always be the case. But, what I was surprised by ... rather, what I was so impressed with, was the cleanliness of the Fargo VA Hospital Facility, considering the whole building is under construction. But the impression did not end there. The employees of the VA were unusually polite, courteous, and professional. Granted, I have been in many hospitals and clinics over the years, and seen professionalism. But I was really taken back by the level of real concern displayed by the staff to all the patients I had witnessed.
They are always quick with a salutation of Sir, Mister, Ma'am or Mrs., which in our day and time is sadly missing. All the patients that I witnessed, including myself, are all offered a sincere "Thank You for your Service" when they are leaving.
So in honor of all our Veterans and previous military members this year, I would personally like to thank you for your service. And to all the VA staff in Fargo and throughout the country, I would like to thank you for serving our veterans. God bless you all.
Stew Burns
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Perham
