Veterans - America’s National Treasures
Contributed by Carol “Kitty” Hafner
The recent March 30 Alaska Governor Candidate Forum brought to light not only the many needs to address in assisting our veterans but offered multiple insightful possible solutions. Finding solutions in Alaska can additionally further support all American veterans, regardless of their current residence.
During my 14 years as a higher education administrator, my personal passion to advocate for our American veterans led me to devote my professional energies in support of the Center for World War II Studies and Conflict Resolution at Brookdale Community College.
Local veterans shared their personal experiences from the past 50 years. Programming included guest speakers providing expert commentary on World War history, bringing to life the academic class offerings of History of WWII and Holocaust Studies. More recent deployments were also included, further educating students and community. Additionally offered were short term study abroad programs to Europe, most notably including the site of the Normandy invasion.
Our veterans know firsthand that entering into conflict is a decision not lightly taken. The repercussions are far reaching, even continuing beyond the end of a given conflict. Understanding and learning from our past is the foundation for future responsible leadership decisions. Today’s decision makers should first learn from America’s past before engaging in conflicts.
One of my most profound experiences was hearing a frail elderly WWII veteran address an audience of about 300. Reflecting upon his wartime experience, he was slow in his speaking, searching for the right words that were not easily forthcoming. As he continued his testimony, he paused for what seemed too long before continuing.
What he had witnessed all those many decades ago, he later said he had never before spoken about.
The room remained silent.
That day, before this audience, was the first time he had been able to verbalize his horrific World War II experience. He held all the tormenting horror within his heart for over 50 years.
I personally believe America has an obligation to take care of all our veterans. We also have an obligation to ensure all future military personnel will be provided for. If we won’t or can’t do this, we have no business getting involved in conflicts in the first place.
PTSD is all too common in our military ranks. Treatment is still not readily available to all who suffer. Again, if America cannot ensure all our military veterans can receive necessary healthcare and support services after serving our country, then they should not be put in harm’s way.
Over the 2025 Thanksgiving holiday, a very dear friend, a Vietnam veteran, lost his long health battles with Agent Orange and associated illnesses. He was the last of his military buddies to pass away from those complications.
When I first ran for Alaska political office in 2018 for the US House of Representatives, my platform and commitments were straightforward. Clearly included was for America to stay out of international conflicts, my firm stance remains solid today. And taking care of all our veterans, regardless of where they reside, is our moral responsibility.