Benefits for the Stark crew?

Submitted by Ron Eaton (United States), Feb 13, 2009 at 16:28

My hat comes off to Pete and the entire crew. I was aboard the repair ship that responded to her and assisted in getting her and her crew ready to come home. As a leading DCETT member I was involved in numerous excercises training our sailors to control these types of actions. This crew demonstrated just how worthwhile all that time spent training was. What I find disheartening is the fact that none of us that were there are eligible for VA compensation packages. I still hold the original work order for this ordeal that reads "repair or replace battle damage as necessary". I find it hard to believe that Congress does not recognize being in a combatant zone, suffering battle damage, and still list this time period as "not be involved in war". The men that suffered thru this action and the men and women involved with this incident should be recognized as being eligible for all the benefits they are entitled to. Pete, my sincere apreciation and a 'Job well done' to you and the entire crew. Fair winds and following seas.

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