This area is in need of major help. As a Desert Shield/Desert Storm Veteran who volunteered to go back in for the war, it saddens me to see how unfairly the Veterans of our country, who fight for our rights, are treated. We have seen so many programs that were not properly funded to begin with and then get cut. From Veteran Hospital closings to prescription drug programs cut or contribution rates raised out of reach. More than ever, now, our troops deserve a strong health care program for themselves as well as for their families. These people wear the one and only fabric of democracy and freedom, the uniform of a U.S. Soldier. I have worked with Senators and Congressmen from both parties to increase the benefits for our Veterans. I worked with Lt. Governor Pat Quinn to pass the scratch off lottery ticket "Vet Cash" to help fund the State's VA Budget. I will work to obtain a County Bus that would take our Veterans to V.A Hospitals, since our Countywide Hospitals do not provide medical services to our Veterans. Surrounding Counties have obtained these buses through State and Federal Grants. It takes a lot more than just a car magnet to show support!