Veterans raise concerns in Listening Post

By: Angela Jean
Missouri National Guard Public Affairs


ST. JOSEPH, Mo. -More than 150 Veterans and family members exchanged issues and concerns at a Listening Post put on by the Missouri Veterans Commission at the Missouri National Guard Armory in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph's Post, which was hosted by the Missouri National Guard, was the eighth out of 21 that will be held in various locations across the state. More than 50 questions were asked on confidential note cards and read and answered by a panel of experts from Veterans organizations in the Northwest Missouri area. Questions covered many topics, but a vast majority were on healthcare benefits, spousal benefits and the Global War on Terrorism.

"A lot of people who came here tonight are looking for a place to get their questions answered," said Larry Kay, Executive Director of the Missouri Veterans Commission. "This was the longest and largest Listening Post we've had and I think it was the largest because it's in a neutral place. It was here at a National Guard location and not a Veteran's organization."

Those questions and concerns that could not be answered at the Post were passed on for one-on-one attention from either Kay or another Veterans organization member. Those issues that they see fit will then be passed on to Governor Jay Nixon for further review and consideration.

Col. Mike Pankau, of the 139th Airlift Wing, was the keynote speaker for the event and also a member of the panel. National Guard members, who helped coordinate the St. Joseph Post, said the turnout was better than expected and they hope some good outcomes will stem from all the Listening Posts across the state.

"The Veterans that were here had legitimate issues," said Staff Sgt. Kim Rukavina. "If the organization as a whole can help those who really need help then this is one outstanding organization. I really hope that will happen for these individuals."

As far as the future for Listening Posts, Kay said they are unsure whether they will continue again next year. However, he said they are looking into it and what factors will play a role in that decision.

"We are looking at the future and seeing what venues we want to get out to the public," said Kay. "Just seeing the faces of Missouri Veterans that we've seen so far is an amazing thing. They are all different and they all have families with different concerns. They are all who I work for and why I do my job."

For more information about the Missouri National Guard, please call 1-800-GoGuard or visit www.moguard.com.