The MDJ’s competitor newspaper did a feature story on Sunday about unemployed veterans, and in particular, one out of work veteran was profiled.  It is unconscionable that the unemployment rate for veterans exceeds the national average.  George Washington said, "The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the Veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation."  Surely returning veterans, men and women who have acquired good habits, discipline, responsibility, who understand sacrifice and loyalty, surely they are not only employable, but seemingly highly desirable.  Bumper sticker patriotism goes only so far.  Tough talk about being a patriot, without more, is meaningless.  Hopefully more stories of unemployed veterans will sensitize those in a position to make a difference and result in hiring more veterans.  We owe it to them.