VETERAN APPLAUDS TRANSPORTATION TO MEDICAL CENTER

To the Editor:

I would like to bring to the attention of all of your readers a special transportation program for veterans needing rides to medical appointments at veterans hospitals.

This program is coordinated through the Disabled American Veterans office at John J. Pershing Veterans Hospital in Poplar Bluff, and this program is run by volunteer drivers nationwide where possible. Having been a recipient of this program several times now, I have grown to know the genuine concern these volunteers have; for our veterans.

We have one such volunteer driver right outside Marble Hill who has logged over tens of thousands of miles driving veterans all over Missouri. The only monetary allowance they receive is 12 cents per mile, as well as insurance coverage while transporting the veterans (this through the Disabled American Veterans) and the grateful thanks of the many veterans who would otherwise be unable to receive medical care.

This dedicated individual is Mr. Alvis E. Lee, who uses his own vehicle to provide this service, without any reimbursement for wear and tear on the vehicle. This brings to mind the fact that the D.A.V. is trying to purchase a 1990 van to be kept and used in this area for this purpose. The Department Service Officer at Poplar Bluff has been trying desperately to raise $1,000 to purchase this van; the other money needed would come from other funding sources.

Unfortunately, Mr. Alan Sandus, the service officer, has been unable to raise the $1,000 needed initially. If anyone would like to donate to this extremely worthwhile cause please call (314) 686-4151, ext. 396, or you may mail them directly to: Alan J. Sandus, V.A. Medical Center, Room 2, Poplar Bluff, Mo., 63901.

As one veteran I would like to say thank you to Mr. Lee and also the D.A.V.

Robert L. Killeen Jr.

Leopold