Posted on Sep 24, 2014
Should we be concerned with homeless civilians posing as veterans?
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I generally do not question the validity of a person in need, however EVERY homeless person I see can't be a vet. I've given a lot to people who have been on the corner asking for help. What first sparked my suspicion was a man that came up to me while I was pumping gas. He gave me the standard "road side bomb line" and lifted his shirt to show me his scars. I asked him why he hadn't talked to the VA before he was discharged. He then went wide-eyed, turned, and walked away.
This may be just my city, but most of the homeless men in this town wear some type of military identifying item. With two surplus stores and countless goodwill centers, I'm starting to believe being a military vet is becoming the excuse used to take advantage of those that don't know better. This could end bad for the actual veterans that need the assistance.
This may be just my city, but most of the homeless men in this town wear some type of military identifying item. With two surplus stores and countless goodwill centers, I'm starting to believe being a military vet is becoming the excuse used to take advantage of those that don't know better. This could end bad for the actual veterans that need the assistance.
Posted in these groups: 
Homeless
Homeless
Edited 10 y ago
Posted 10 y ago
Responses: 24
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CPT (Join to see) I personally have had similar conversations with civilians posing as ex-military personnel. Most of these grifters are wise to what's a "hot" button topic in the community and are quick to adapt their stories to hit all the right buttons for the naive do-gooders. Terribly sad state of affairs, but it happens. When someone tells me they are a veteran I spend a few minutes with them; most of them realize I'm wise to them when they are not ex-military and quietly walk away. The veterans quickly learn I will help them, but it's on them to participate fully. I also require them to be fully honest with me - anytime I discover the veteran has lied to me I let them know and also inform them that if they are caught in a lie a second time I most likely will not be available to help them in the future.
I respect every veteran and his/her journey - along with the various difficulties they may have been through. However, I am not willing to spend my time and efforts on those who opt to lie to me.
I applaud your efforts for our veterans - I would only suggest you might consider joining with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) in your efforts. Every VSO has a singular intent to aid fellow veterans after service and might be able to help you focus your efforts and combine them with their own. There is strength in numbers!
I respect every veteran and his/her journey - along with the various difficulties they may have been through. However, I am not willing to spend my time and efforts on those who opt to lie to me.
I applaud your efforts for our veterans - I would only suggest you might consider joining with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) in your efforts. Every VSO has a singular intent to aid fellow veterans after service and might be able to help you focus your efforts and combine them with their own. There is strength in numbers!
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No. On the back of the sign they are holding, it reads "Car broke down on the way to get my mother an operation. Any help is appreciated. God Bless." I will offer to take them to the VA regional office and make an appointment to talk to a service officer. I will enjoy a nice sit down lunch with them; my treat. I will take them to the homeless veteran office at the local VA hospital and be their POC while they are in the program. I will not give them money. I am a big meanie.
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