Truespeak

While the Bush administration's FY2006 budget may mean deep cuts in veteran's benefits, it's nice to know that someone is still looking out for their well-being. Who is it, you ask? Why it's Illinois Democrats, that's who.

Military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder received good news Sunday when Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed a bill that requires insurance companies in Illinois to cover treatment for the condition.

Addressing hundreds of veterans during the Illinois State Fair's Veterans Day, Blagojevich announced that the legislation, which is effective immediately, will help military veterans grappling with the chronic mental-health condition that results from experiencing or witnessing life-threatening events, including military combat and terrorist incidents.

"Post-traumatic stress disorder is a terrible condition that hurts thousands of veterans in Illinois. It's a disorder that makes it hard for them to work, take care of their families or function fully in society," Blagojevich said in a statement. "Our veterans put their lives on the line defending this country. It's our duty to help them get the treatment they need."

It's about time somebody addressed this issue. Too many of our soldiers are coming home without the necessary means to cope with what they've been through. It's good to see that someone cares. Despite all of the talk that we hear from the right about honoring our servicemen, it's the Democrats that are really doing the work to make sure they're taken care of.