Posted on Jan 8, 2014
MAJ Bryan Zeski
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http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/06/3124001/retired-pentagon-aide-homeless/


Something doesn't seem quite right with this story.

Posted in these groups: Jon JobsRetirement logo RetirementMain benefits 1335181026 BenefitsVietnam 20veteran Homeless
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Responses: 13
SGT Richard H.
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As a retired 0-6, his retirement should be in the ballpark of what? $5k or more a month? I would think even if he's losing half to a divorce or something he should be able to swing at least a modest apartment. I agree that something doesn't sound quite right.

With that being said, homelessness is more often than not a mental issue rather than a fiscal issue. There are plenty of people who just "snap" one day and just wander away from whatever life they were living.
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SFC Michael Hasbun
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This makes no sense to me.. He makes more in retirement than I do on Active Duty. How extensive was this debt that he's now homeless?
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SFC Michael Hasbun
SFC Michael Hasbun
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I agree with you completely. I am only addressing those trying to blame the military. I have no problem with supporting our fellow comrades, but because it's the right thing to do, not because he's a victim. He's not. He's just in a bad situation.
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Sgt James Commander
Sgt James Commander
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Has anyone ever thought that this is a matter of family over self? I admire this man for his sacrifices for his children. Should he ever get to the point of seeing all of his children in a successful life, he can and will go back to living as a retired Air Force Colonel.
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SSgt Forensic Meteorological Consultant
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Thanks Michael Hasburn and Sgt Commander.  wow great name.  but I agree with you.  If it means his offspring can succeed where he did not,  that will be his legacy.   The gift of sacrifice.  A gift most of us know something about.
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LTC Program Manager
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There are no scholarships for retirement.
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SFC James Baber
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I think this is very sad and a true statement of how the VA and the government is really towards our veterans if it is true.


I would need more on this to give a honest opinion if this is accurate in the writing.

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SSgt Forensic Meteorological Consultant
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SFC Baber.  I was told that the definition of homeless has changed.   Now,  they told me it would take a year in my car to qualify as homeless.   The new title would be "other living circumstances' or something to that effect.


In fact,  I had quite a row with a person you would think would try to help.   And he had some leeway and I feel jaded.  The first thing is the potential for a possible work program but they never called.   


Things happen for the best and one day I called the Senator.  This guy made sure my situation was rectified expediently and I am forever grateful for that.


Choices,  decisions whatever,  the bottom line here is not one of finding fault but finding a safe place to live.  One guy was actually leaning on my car outside a rest stop and I was sleeping.  When I woke up I was startled.  And what appeared to be a threatening moment.


I warned him not to ever do that to me.  I mentioned who I was to him but then decided to just let it go.   I wanted to deck him and see how the hood done him any good.


It is dangerous,  my family was afraid for me.  I tried to reassure them I can take care of myself.   I startle very easy and have seizures for God knows what,  and have an appointment for that next week.


So perhaps this Colonel may have met with some unfortunate and undefinable to us situation.   Stress can actually takes years off one's life and who am I to assume why.  Quite frankly,  I could care.


I want that man to be okay.   He is our brother in arms and that is all I need to know.

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Sgt Jennifer Mohler
Sgt Jennifer Mohler
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Jesus, that is fucked up. I was living off the good will of close friends directly after exiting the military. That scares me to think what they would have said to me if I didn't land somewhere safe (like a fucking car).
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