Veterans Benefits

* As a combat veteran, I can testify that VA hospitals can be a humbling and frustrating ordeal. Still, as a taxpayer I want proper scrutiny of Agent Orange and Gulf War complaints (Dec. 1). Our economy is plagued by an entitlement (or benefits) mentality, victimization and whiplash syndrome. There are even public seminars for veterans on “upping” disability percentages.

Veterans deserve the best treatment for service-connected disabilities, but there should be some solid research and facts when thousands are asking for lifelong medical and financial support.

RAY BUTLER

Long Beach