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Mark 03/09/2009 6:17:00 AM
Jason, I wasn't aware of all you went through this past year, other than the tid-bits you told me personally while we worked together. I do remember you out processing on a day that no one would be available to assist you because we had family day going on. That was bad timing on the base' part. It could have been rescheduled. You were a dedicated troop and I always had respect and admiration for you. I believe you and I have the same high dedication to our country, the mission, and our fellow comrads. Feel honored to have known you.
It saddens me to see you going through this "crap" and had to deal with fellow "airmen" who we both know are not sincere with the Air Force core values of "interity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do." You can tell that by their lack of actions, in the way your case was treated. I have since retired and experienced the poor attitudes and "run-around" while trying to out process. I saw there was no process at all, in my case. I managed to find one fellow airman, who I do admire, to take my hand and get me through that process. It is widely expressed on the Air Guard side of the base that we have many airmen in our HQ offices who do not know their jobs well enough to manage them properly. Too many folks shifting from one office to another without getting adequate training and experience. That's part of the problem. I do not speak for all who work at HQ; just that it needs better management structure and accountability. There are those who work in the HQ offices who do not understand their job's impact on other unit members. Therefore, we see constant problems developing that impacts morale.
You and I both know of other accounts of pay and personnel issues that were mishandled and created long lasting problems for the affected troop. That tears down morale, which challenges the supervisors of the affected troops. I have personally raised issues for troops in a professional manner, but was not always successful in getting positive results for them. Unfortunately, I was not in a position to help you directly.
Furthermore, I have read numerous comments being made by others about our base and some I do have to disagree with. I do know many who we both worked with, who are just as dedicated to our core values as we are. I do not want the 147 RW to be stereotyped as a unit that is corrupt and uncaring for it's troops. I am a believer of the military way of life and the systems that are in place to take care of us. Unfortunately, those few who managed the systems were the one's who apparently failed you. I agree that your case should have been handled better and those who you counted on to help you were not there for you. I only pray that you succeed in getting what you and your family deserve. Place it in God's hands and allow Him restore your faith. Easier said than done I know, but its the solution. Will keep you in my prayers.
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Mark 03/09/2009 6:17:00 AM
Jason, I wasn't aware of all you went through this past year, other than the tid-bits you told me personally while we worked together. I do remember you out processing on a day that no one would be available to assist you because we had family day going on. That was bad timing on the base' part. It could have been rescheduled. You were a dedicated troop and I always had respect and admiration for you. I believe you and I have the same high dedication to our country, the mission, and our fellow comrads. Feel honored to have known you.
It saddens me to see you going through this "crap" and had to deal with fellow "airmen" who we both know are not sincere with the Air Force core values of "interity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do." You can tell that by their lack of actions, in the way your case was treated. I have since retired and experienced the poor attitudes and "run-around" while trying to out process. I saw there was no process at all, in my case. I managed to find one fellow airman, who I do admire, to take my hand and get me through that process. It is widely expressed on the Air Guard side of the base that we have many airmen in our HQ offices who do not know their jobs well enough to manage them properly. Too many folks shifting from one office to another without getting adequate training and experience. That's part of the problem. I do not speak for all who work at HQ; just that it needs better management structure and accountability. There are those who work in the HQ offices who do not understand their job's impact on other unit members. Therefore, we see constant problems developing that impacts morale.
You and I both know of other accounts of pay and personnel issues that were mishandled and created long lasting problems for the affected troop. That tears down morale, which challenges the supervisors of the affected troops. I have personally raised issues for troops in a professional manner, but was not always successful in getting positive results for them. Unfortunately, I was not in a position to help you directly.
Furthermore, I have read numerous comments being made by others about our base and some I do have to disagree with. I do know many who we both worked with, who are just as dedicated to our core values as we are. I do not want the 147 RW to be stereotyped as a unit that is corrupt and uncaring for it's troops. I am a believer of the military way of life and the systems that are in place to take care of us. Unfortunately, those few who managed the systems were the one's who apparently failed you. I agree that your case should have been handled better and those who you counted on to help you were not there for you. I only pray that you succeed in getting what you and your family deserve. Place it in God's hands and allow Him restore your faith. Easier said than done I know, but its the solution. Will keep you in my prayers.
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Dale Gilbreth 12/20/2008 11:26:00 PM
In response to this article and the stupid comments by "Air Force Vet" I have to say I am not surprised this airman got screwed out of disability benefits. I know from personal experience that the Air Force as a whole, not just the Gaurd or Reserve, will discard their wounded, sick, or injuried in the most expediant method available, be it legal or not.
This is what has not been said in this case thus far.
1. Members of the Military cannot sue for any ole sum of money they want. They have a statuatory system that allows them to recieve monetary compensation, and treatment for their medicial needs. They can sue for these statuatory benefits after going through the Informal Physical Evaluation Board, afforded a Personal Appearance before the Formal Physical Evaluation Board, then an appeal to the Sec. of the USAF, if needed. After Discharge the Veteran can appeal their Military problem to the USAF Board for Correction of Military Records, then to Federal Appeals Court if the BCMR could not resolve their probelm. Thanks to Lt Colonel Frank Fisher, the Veteran can sue for statuatory Military Disability Compensation due them plus back pay/promotion.
Compare this to a civilian ordering a hot cup of coffee from McDonalds who then spills it on herself, sues McDonalds and is awarded Millions of Dollars.
Which system is fair?
2. There are two Disability Systems this young man is trying to navigate. The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and the Military Disability Evaluation System (DES).
The DVA system is to compensate Veterans for Lost "Civilian" Wages, while the DES was to determine eligibility for Military Compensation due to his loss of a Military Career.
3. This young man has been screwed by the USAF, because the Medical Evaluation Board determines whether an individual has a Medical Problem which interferes with his ability to perform his duties of rank and position. The IPEB located at Randolp AFB, Texas makes a determination as to whether he was "fit for duty" or no "unfit for duty". If he was found fit for duty, then thrown out due to his medical condition without being refered back to the IPEB first, he has grounds to bring his case before the AFBCMR. The case will be denied by the AFBCMR of course, but he can then use Fisher vs. the United States in Federal Court to resolve the issue to his favor.
4. He should ask the Disabled American Veterans for help. Fisher did this.
5. He should submit a sworn affidavit to the USAF BCMR along with copies of all his information and Military Regulations applicable.
6. Department of Defense Regulations state that a Military Member on orders of 30 days or more, is eligible for military disability retirement if the disability is 30% or greater, and disability severance pay if less than 30%.
Military Law dictates an Individual with 8 or more years of Military Service with an "unfit for military duty medical condition" is automatically considered in the line of duty for disability purposes.
7. Good reading material is Government Accountability Office report GAO-06-362.
Hope it helps!
Dale A. Gilbreth, Former USAF 1st Lt.
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Lynn A. 08/09/2008 7:40:00 PM
I have been a military spouse for over 20 years. My husband was a member of the 147th Fighter Wing (FW) Ellington Field as both a traditional guardsman and active duty member.
I am familiar with, and have witnessed first hand, the treatment described by Mr. Franco. I am personally aware of a service member who is actively pursuing, through congressional and legal assistance, to correct the very command Mr. Franco has described, the leadership of the 147th FW (formerly), now 147th Reconnaissance Wing.
I applaud Mr. Franco for standing up to a leadership which is void of many things...one of which is integrity! I encourage the Franco family to continue your fight. You are not alone!
Funny thing�. the Texas Air National Guard website states the following:
"Our Guard Values - Service, Courage, Honesty, Integrity, Respect and Loyalty." Its vision is, "A continually evolving World Class organization that accomplishes the mission and takes care of its people." No where in Mr. Franco's story is there evidence of either the Texas Air National Guard�s values or vision statement. Strange for a �world class organization� to not follow through on their vision statement; my opinion�.they are hollow words�for appearance only.
I suggest he once again contact Congressman Gene Green and Congressman Nick Lampson's offices and file a "Congressional Complaint". In your request of these congressional members, you remind them of their duties as representatives and the oath they took when sworn into to office. I also believe Congressman Lampson is running for re-election. Also, I suggest Mr. Franco contact the Texas Adjutant General, Charles Rodriguez.
Also, where is Governor Rick Perry, and what are his thoughts about the treatment of one of his airman? He is the �Commander-in-Chief� of the Texas Military Forces. Governor Perry has been made aware of other questionable treatment by these same members of the 147th. Several female airmen, both former members and active members at the time, filed a congressional complaint of which Governor Perry�s office was fully apprised of. Where is Governor Perry?
To Mr. Franco and his family: Keep your chin up. Be prepared for the "powers at be" to provide little or no response, or delay and drag out what little response you may receive. Stand Firm! DO NOT allow "no answer given" to be an answer. Stay the course, fight the fight! And, when it is all said and done, know that when you stand before our Heavenly Father, He will say "well done my good and faithful servant!" May God bless you and your family during this difficult time.
Signed:
From one who is familiar with those @ the 147th FW
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LISA FRANCO RODRIGUEZ 08/09/2008 12:34:00 PM
To the "Air Force Veteran" who is very troubled. You write with such anger. You really took this article personally. It's amazing that you a Vet yourself disagrees with the way this young man was treated. Seems like you have some personal issues here. If you were one of the ones who failed to do your job correctly then I can see why you are so "Troubled". His mother didn't raise a dummy as you can tell by his reponse to your comment and if he was a lawyer I would sure have him on my side. This young man is not the only Vet that has been treated badly but I applaud him for standing up for his family and himself just as he did for OUR COUNTRY and OUR FREEDOM. He loved what he did and loved what he stood for. He does not give up, he is a fighter. He stands for what he believes in and by no means is he asking for a free ride. How do I know this because I am his sister. I am Proud to call him My Brother. If you were away at war with him and were wounded you would expect him to save you, Correct? Then why back in civilization would you allow him to drown? That is sad. The men and women who go away and fight for our Freedom each and everyday do not have the luxury of home, not only do they have to adapt to being without their loved ones, their loved ones have to adapt as well. You Pray by Faith and Thank God for their safe return home. You stand proud knowing that they are one of The Brave who serve Our Country and are willing to put their own lives on the line each and everyday so why doesn't their own Country the USA take care of the people who were UNSELFISH with their own life. Why is it that these Veterans continue to suffer. Instead of making sure that they do have the health care they need when they get sick or injured we make sure that the people shooting hoops or running a football down a field have great benefits. I enjoy sports but priorities are screwed up. Remember it is because of the BRAVE Men and Women that serve this Country that we can watch a game, and watch our children play outside. So why are the Veterans and other people who put their lives on the line the ones that have to suffer and struggle. To the men and women at Ellington Field who know about my brothers case and did nothing but look the other way, lied and tried to cover your butts. God Bless You and I hope and pray you or one of your loved ones are never treated so badly. To Our Goverment who Allows Our Troops, Veterans and Everyone else who put their lives on the line to (so that you may sleep in peace) be treated so badly, God Bless You. My Brother just wanted to serve his Country he did not ask to get cancer and have to go through radiation treatments. When my brother was told he had cancer and would have to go through radiation treatments he was also told how his life would change. He didn't believe it because he is young, he's strong he just wanted to get better so he could go back to active duty and provide for his family. He stayed positive and said It's OK Only God knows why I got cancer and had to experience Radiation treatments and the effects all this has on my body. He said mabe their is someone who is going to have to experience the same thing I did and mabe I can help them through it. I have seen my brother have it all and loose it all. But he has not lost His Faith in God, His dignity, or his Pride. He is a fighter and I am PROUD to call him my Brother. I Love You Jason and Jen with all my Heart I know God has Great plans for your life. He still has you in the palm of his hands. You know as well as I do he is not finished with you yet. God Bless You both and the kids
I pray that the Goverment wake up and Take Care of the Ones Who took care of them and their loved ones.
I pray that all you at Ellington Feild who dropped the ball on my brother and others that you wake up and take your Job more seriously so that another family doesn't suffer.
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M. ESCOBEDO 08/05/2008 5:14:00 AM
IT'S AMAZING HOW FOOTBALL, BASEBALL, OR BASKETBALL PLAYERS CAN GET PAID MILLIONS OF DOLLARS A YEAR, BUT THE PEOPLE THAT TRULY DESERVE BENEFITS OR THE MONEY; LIKE OUR MILITARY PERSONNEL; WHO PROTECT THIS COUNTRY, OUR POLICE OFFICERS; WHO PROTECT OUR CITIES AND TOWNS, AND OUT TEACHERS; WHO TEACH AND GUIDE AND MOLD OUR FUTURE LEADERS; DON'T GET PAID OR AREN'T GIVEN THE RECOGNITION THEY DESERVE OR NEED.
EXPLAIN TO ME HOW WILL SMITH CAN GET PAID 80 MILLION A YEAR, BUT JASON FRANCO COULDN'T GET THE BENEFITS HE NEEDS AND DESERVES AFTER SERVING HIS COUNTRY. NOT THAT I'M KNOCKING ON CELEBRITIES, BUT WHEN THE SHIT HITS THE CEILING FAN, ITS OUR MILITARY AND OUR PUBLIC SERVANTS THAT RUN IN TO SAVE THE DAY (REMEMBER 9-11).
WHEN A VET NEEDS HELP AND HE GETS TURNED DOWN; ITS A SAD DAY. YOU ASK HIM TO RUN IN TO THE LINE OF FIRE, BUT YET YOU TURN YOU BACK ON HIM WHEN HE COMES TO YOU. YOU ASK HIM TO PROTECT THE CIVILIANS OF THE MIDDLE EAST AND THIS COUNTRY, BUT YOU TELL HIM HE CANT HAVE INSURANCE FOR HIS LITTLE BOY. THEY SAY THIS IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY, THE LAND OF FREEDOM; THAT THERE'S NO OTHER PLACE THAT ONE WOULD WANT TO LIVE. PLEASE EXPLAIN TO ME HOW THE PROMISE LAND BECOMES THE CONDEMNED LAND. I CAME FROM ANOTHER COUNTRY (MEXICO). I'M 33 YRS OLD AND I'VE LIVED HER FOR 31 YRS. IT'S AMAZING HOW WHEN I GO VISIT THE COUNTRY I'M FROM, I'M A STRANGER; BUT, YET THEY TREAT ME LIKE ROYALTY. THE PEOPLE FROM A SECOND WORLD COUNTRY LIVE IN POVERTY, BUT THEY ARE HAPPY AND WILLING TO GIVE YOU THE SHIRT OF THEIR BACKS AND WE THAT LIVE IN THE MOST POWERFUL COUNTRY WON'T LIFT A FINGER TO HELP A FALLEN VET.
THE WAY I SEE IT, IF JASON FRANCO RISKED HIS LIFE; KNOWING HE MIGHT NOT COME BACK; KNOWING THAT HE MIGHT NOT EVER SEE HIS WIFE, SON, AND TWO DAUGHTERS AGAIN; HE DESERVES ALL THE BENEFITS THAT EVERY OTHER WOUNDED VET GETS OR DESERVES. JASON FRANCO SHOWED DISCIPLINE, DEDICATION, AND SELF MOTIVATION. HE SERVED PROUDLY FOR FOUR YEARS IN THE MARINES AND YET, HE SERVED HIS COUNTRY AGAIN IN THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD. THERE AREN'T TO MANY MEN OR WOMEN THAT WOULD DO THAT FOR WHAT THIS COUNTRY BELIEVES IN, F R E E D O M!
JUST LIKE A POLICE OFFICER RUNS INTO A HOUSE WHERE HE KNOWS THERE IS AN ARMED SUSPECT (RISKING HIS LIFE TO SAVE A STRANGER'S LIFE), JASON FRANCO RAN ACROSS THE ATLANTIC OCEAN TO SAVE STRANGERS FROM ANOTHER COUNTRY AND THIS COUNTRY. HE WASN'T ASKED TO JOIN THE ARMED FORCES, HE DID IT ON HIS OWEN;TO HELP OTHERS AND TO SERVE HIS COUNTRY. WITHOUT PEOPLE LIKE JASON FRANCO, THIS COUNTRY WOULD NOT BE WHERE IT IS RIGHT KNOW AND IT WOULD NOT BE THE MOST POWERFUL COUNTRY ON THIS PLANET. ITS FUNNY HOW WHEN SOMEONE MAKES A MISTAKE, NO ONE FORGETS OR THEY MAKE SURE TO BRING IT UP TO SOMEONES ATTENTION. BUT, WHEN SOMEONE GOES OUT OF THEIR WAY, NO ONE REMEMBERS OR THEY TRY NOT TO MENTION IT TO AVOID GIVEN SOMEONE THE THEIR MOMENT.
ASK YOUR SELF, RATHER YOUR A CIVILIAN OR A MILITARY PERSONNEL, HOW WOULD YOU FEEL IF YOU WERE IN THIS SITUATION. HOW WOULD YOU WANT TO BE TREATED? WOULD YOU WANT THE COUNTRY YOU SO PROUDLY FOUGHT FOR; TO SUPPORT YOU OR TURN ITS BACK ON YOU? WE ALL MAKE DECISIONS IN OUR LIFE'S, SOME FOR THE GOOD AND SOME FOR THE BAD. WHEN A PERSON MAKES A DECISION FOR THE GOOD AND YOU TREAT HIM LIKE HE MADE A BAD DECISION, IT MAKES THAT PERSON AND EVERYONE ELSE QUESTION THEMSELVES AS TO WHY THEY WOULD BE TREATED THAT WAY. WHY WOULD THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD TREAT JASON FRANCO THE WAY THEY DID? WHAT DID HE DO TO DESERVE THIS? IS THE ONLY WAY THAT A VET CAN GET THE BENEFITS HE OR SHE DESERVES IS TO COME BACK WITH A LIMB MISSING OR HALF DEAD. JASON FRANCO WENT IN TO ONE OF THE MOST DANGEROUS PLACES ON EARTH AND DIDN'T HESITATE. THE LEAST THIS COUNTRY COULD DO IS GIVE HIM THE BENEFITS HE DESERVES. I KNOW HE DIDN'T JOIN THE ARMED FORCES WITH THE INTENTION OF GETTING THROAT CANCER AND THE TRYING TO SCREW THE GOVERNMENT OUT OF MONEY.
IF A PRO-BALLER OR A MOVIE STAR CAN GET MILLIONS; JASON FRANCO, WHO PUT HIS LIFE ON THE LINE, SHOULD BE ABLE TO GET SOME KIND GOVERNMENTAL AIDE. NOT SO MUCH FOR HIM, BUT FOR HIS FAMILY. DON'T FORGET WE LIVE IN A WORLD THAT IT TAKES TWO TO MAKE IT NOW AND DAY'S. WHEN JASON FRANCO WAS KICKED OUT OF THE MILITARY; THEY ALSO KICKED HIS FAMILY OUT OF THEIR HOME. LIKE I SAID EARLIER "IT'S A SAD DAY" WHEN YOU HAVE TO COME HOME TO YOUR FAMILY WHO DEPENDS ON YOU AND LOOKS UP TO YOU FOR EVERYTHING AND YOU HAVE TO TELL THEM YOU FAILED; EVEN IF IT WASN'T YOUR FAULT.
JASON KEEP YOUR HEAD UP! NEVER EVER LOOK DOWN. DON'T GIVE THEM THAT OPPORTUNITY TO SAY THEY GOT YOU. IF THERE'S ONE THING I'VE LEARNED OVER THE YEARS IS THAT NO MATTER HOW DOWN YOU MIGHT BE, YOUR STILL ABOVE ALL THOSE HATTERS AND THOSE ASS HOLES THAT "THINK" THEY ARE BETTER THEN YOU. REMEMBER WE ALL PUT ON OUR PANTS THE SAME WAY; ONE LEG AT A TIME. ALL YOU NEED IS FAITH AND FRIENDS AND FAMILY. DON'T FORGET WE HAD YOUR BACK AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE YOUR BACK. GO OUT THERE AND SHOW THEM IT'S NOT OVER. WE GOT YOUR BACK.
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Lori 08/05/2008 4:38:00 AM
Let me just say for all military wives this is a huge disappointment. As much as we sacrifice as a wife to sit here and wait on our soldiers in ANY service to go away for as long as 18 months for some people, just to have them come home to this crap!?? Oh Hell no! Our country would not even have the RIGHT to post any comments or stories online or in any paper if it wasn't for THEM, they gave us this thing here in the U.S. of A. called....."freedom of Speech"!! So For the people behind this who failed, and failed again to take care of a soldier you should be so ashamed. We have enough issues with some of the damn VA hospitals falling apart and not giving proper care, and you just add fuel to the fire. Nice, Real nice! I think somebody needs to be reprimanded hardcore, a lot of some bodies, this is such B. S. I mean are you serious? Is it too much to ask that he be taking care of, after all it's cause of your sending him away that he got sick...... and he should be qualified to get medical period. So if he was civilian and got sick, but no insurance he'd basically be in the right to SUE who ever he worked for, and probably win too.BUT, oh this is the Government sooo it's different right? Yea they just get away with stupid shit like this cause they can. It really pisses me off. And how the hell is he supposed to take care of his family if they just screw him over like this? Someone up higher in the chain of command needs to get off their ass and take care of him and his family, he signed the dotted line and did his part, so what gives? Signing off::: Army Wife
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Kathy 08/04/2008 5:07:00 PM
I would like to say how shocked and appalled I am by this article however I cannot. We all know how poorly our military men and women are and have always been treated. What is shocking to me is that there are still individuals willing to risk their lives for the sake of this country knowing how vets are treated. I honor their integrity for doing something I know in my heart of hearts I would never want my son's to do. Hypocritical of me - perhaps. However, I would never be able to find peace if such an injustice was ever done unto either of my boys. I know I am not the only mother who thinks this either and it scares me to even comtemplate of drafts being enforced.
What is appalling is that the United States of America is always the first to lend a helping hand, money, food and supplies to all other countries in need but never take care of their own - have we forgotten about Katrina? Apparently because New Orleans is still in shambles. If America keeps heading in the direction we are of lately will there be anyone there to lend us a helping hand in need? I highly doubt it. Even the airlines know in case of emergency take care of yourself first then help others. You cannot be of any help to anyone else if you dont take care of yourself first. So how about taking care of America for a change.
I am friends with Jason, of whom this story is written, therefore I was fully aware of the trials and tribulations he and his family were and are still going through. None the less, it doesn't make it any less painful to read. With every battle he faces whether its on the battlefield protecting our country, fighting cancer or the bureaucrats in Washington he fights the fight with the intentions of winning. With that being said I know he has the tenacity to withstand a war in fighting for his rights. How could you expect someone who fights for the rights and freedoms of countless Americans to not do the same for himself or his family? That is not a character trait that just fades off into the background and is exactly what you want in someone defending your country.
This has been and will always be an ongoing battle for our veterans which in itself is shameful. I hope this is not the end of media attention. If the journalist who wrote this story takes pride in her work there will be a follow up story to come. Not just for Jason but for all men and women who bravely give their life because the President of The United States asked them to. And they do so without hesitation or ramification to themselves or their families.
My heart felt appreciation and gratitude goes out to all men and women in the military as well as their families. Not just in times of war but throughout the entire year. No one truly knows what you go through to serve this country unless you have someone close to you who serves as well. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and God Bless you and yours.
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Vicki 08/04/2008 4:02:00 PM
As a military veteran myself, I am saddened and ashamed that this is how those who protect this country's freedom are treated. I'm saddened by the comments in #1 by the "air force vet", but Jason is right...there are many who try to cover and slide things under the rug and this person is most likely one of them. Because as TRUE, PROUD veterans of UNITED STATES MILITARY, we are SUPPOSED to support one another and help our fellow soldiers, marines, airmen, and seamen in any way, shape or form. I'm ashamed of the "higher ups" who tried to hide, lie and cover up things. Of course, if this was the situation with any of them or their family members, things would have had a completely different outcome. God Bless you, Jason and your family and I truly hope this goes all the way to where it needs to in order for some changes to be made.
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Sonjya 08/04/2008 5:08:00 AM
Wow, I have to say hat I'm sickened by all this shit that Jason and his family have gone through and are still going through. I grew up living next to Jason and his family, and as kids we were always getting into trouble. Having a harder time trying to stay out of it. So, to hear that he had grew up and gone off to become a man is just wonderful.
It hurts me knowing that our people are treated like shit after serving for us. See I do not like war, and I know no body else does either. It is a nasty thing to have to do, but someone has to. I do not agree with everything that has caused this new war( and I'm not the only one )but I except it. Sometimes we just have to Git R' Done.
Our men and women deserve so much more then what we as a country give to them after seeing the shit that they see day in and day out of every day that it goes on. Things have got to change and people who are in higher position need to fight harder for the services men and women...just like they fight hard for your right to be free every day. I just can't imagine what it would be like if my brother who is a vet from the first iraq war in 1990, ( opperation desert storm )if he had came back hurt or worse dead.
This is sad to say, but if Jason had came home in a box instead of walking he would have been treated better. The dead always get treated better then the living. That sucks! NOT that the dead should be treated any less. But the living need to be treated as good. I do not want to offened anybody with that last part. I know that the dead gave the most they could ever give, and I respect that deeply. I love the men and women who give me freedom every day I wake up. I just think that more needs to be done for those who serve and make it home still alive. They need things to be done for them, while they are still alive.
Well, I guess thats all I going to say. I'm sure that I have offened some if not all with my comments. If I did I am sorry.
To you Jason, may GOD BLESS you and your family. I will be praying for you and I know it will all work out for you.
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Shelly 08/02/2008 10:03:00 PM
I am a 100% service connected veteran, and I want to say this is ATROCIOUS! I can't believe Franco was treated this way. I can't believe his chain of command would allow such an injustice to transpire.
Further to the Vet that commented in #1...I was given 60% disability by the Air Force, so YES, it can be up to active duty and guard to determine disability. Granted, the VA deemed me 100%, but my initial rating was given by the US Air Force.
I've spoken with Franco personally. He's entitled to be angry and I think we all should give that to him. He got cancer for Christ's sake. He didn't smoke. He didn't do anything WRONG. He served his country honorably and for it, got CANCER and nothing else. Seems just a bit unfair to me.
I think the TEXAS Senators should get involved with this. I think they could probably get down to the bottom of what happened to Jason, so they could address those in charge which allowed it to occur, so as to ensure it doesn't happen to any others.
I thank God everyday I was treated the way I have been treated, but we ALL know there are tons of vets and service-members alike who fall through the cracks of justice.
Further, I commend Jason for bucking the system and stepping forward to share his story. I'm ashamed to say I know of the people involved. I'm ashamed to say I have family in that unit.
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Martydecarlos 08/02/2008 4:17:00 AM
Let us not forget that we Americans would not have the freedom and prosperity that we do if it were not for the armed forces. I thank the lord everyday for the the men and women that put their lives at risk to protect us. How can we allow this injustice? Jason, we have you and your family in our prayers.
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Jason Franco 08/02/2008 12:53:00 AM
I want people to know personally, that I am Jason Franco in which this article is about. I am here to comment back in resonse to the previous comment made by "Air Force Vet". As you can see I will not ever hide behind a name to not be reconized.
First of all, this article was to inform people of what goes on in the military behind closed doors. As a veteran yourself, you should be ashamed of yourself calling yourself a veteran and having the attitude of anger for this article...unless you were one of the ones mentioned...HMMM?? I am not doing this to get any type of benefits at all. Unlike yourself, I am doing this for every veteran past and present who knew they were done wrong when they got discharged, but couldn't prove it, and let the parents be informed what their own kids might endure after their child gets hurt while in service.
It is sad when you hear time and time again veterans are not being taking care of by the VA. My complaint is not with the VA, even though they admitted that my cancer was caused by the military and got a zero percent rating for it. I have faith that the VA will work out in time and get the benefits my family and I deserve. My complaint is that I was discharged without the second medical board that I was promised I would get and that I had appealed for, and even returned back to duty for five extra months awaiting a re-evaluation from the medical board, when I was supposed to get out 5 months before.(I won my appeal)
The difference that separates myself from other veterans that have been done wrong by the military is that, I have the paperwork and emails from the individuals named in their own writting to prove it. For all the veterans reading this...they were sloppy, and I caught them! So let me get started with this comment from the "Air Force Vet".
The "Air Force Vet"(in hiding)said that "she" oops(because I think I know who wrote this.)Anyway, we'll just call this person she for now. Said that she was was "very troubled by the lack of investigative journalism used by the writer and you the editor of the houston press." Well, Margaret the editor ran into the same problems I encountered when I was being discharged on Family day from the base. She called but, nobody would talk to her. If the State Command Chief Master Sergeant Sam Davis in Austin Texas, who is over all the guard bases in Texas, tells Command Chief Priscilla Leger from Ellington Field from Houston to respond to me asap about getting things corrected and accurate, and she Blatenly ignores the "The top Enlisted Man". How could you expect Margaret to get the full report when she was treated like I was, when I was being discharged.(ohh and before you try comment back that this did not happen...I have that email also...wink)
As for Severance pay that you mentioned. You asked did Margaret "review the continuous active duty service of Mr. Franco". Wow...look at this... I have another email from BASE JAG Captain Lowenstein to Major Pamela Thormin that I should be eligible for AGR Severance pay.After being discharged on July 15, 2007... on July 27, 2007, Major Pamela Thormin told me herself I should receive the separation pay once I'm discharged. Mrs. Carolyn Rayburn at Randolph Base in San Antonio told me nothing was ever put in for me to recieve the separation pay. SMSgt.Cynthia Franks told me she would look into it and get back to me...She never got back with me! August 14,2007 Command Chief Priscilla Leger also mentioned I would be getting severance pay. I never recieved it when told by the incapible people that help run the base.
You also mentioned "as for free tricare" you really do need to update yourself with benefits for military personel. No telling how many people you screwed over if you are or were in that position to do so ! Per Tricare themselves said; members are eligable for transition assistance for up to 180 days from discharge if they have an honorable discharge and are apart of operation Iraqi Freedom. I was apart of Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom so I fall under getting 6 months of Tricare for my family. So the "required to have been deployed within 6 months prior to discharge" you mentioned sorry :( is not at all true.I was not trying to get " Tricare indefinitely" like you also mentioned. I was discharged with 3 day notice after 13 years of service with 9 active duty. On the 3rd day I got out,I had no benefits what-so-ever for me or my family, but I got discharged for medical reasons??? I even had to miss some doctors appointments the next week which included a CAT scan.So what's up with that! I guess that's okay with you if your people you supervised were injured! I feel sorry for them!!
You mentioned about "medical retirement". All I wanted, was the opportunity to get re-evaluated in person like I was promised.
I was brought to the office of Major Pamela Thormin and there started the lies. I was lied to by her stating that the second medical board came back, and I was still getting out with now benefits. When asked to see the paperwork from the second Evaluation she pulled an "Oscar winning move" when she started looking around her desk, lifting papers and even left the room to go look for the new paperwork. Long story short...there never was a second medical board. She even went as far to Lie to the JAG officer Captain Lowenstein, when he asked Major Pamela Thormin about the medical hold, but she now doesn't know anything about it, after she told me it came back and I was getting out. I then went to the Base medical and talked to SrA Angelique Tavira who helped me put the packet together for the appeal and to be put on medical hold. Guess what??? Right!! She said never did any such thing she said, but guess what?? I have the packet plus all the emails sent To and From the base medical, to my supervisor and to Major Pamela Thormin's section where she works.
I showed SrA Angelique Tavira that I did if fact have proof of her writting back and forth for my medical hold, and even has a doctor from the base say I was to refer to Wilford Hall for an appeal. I also noticed in my medical records that SrA Angelique Tavira was writting that I had meetings with her about the medical hold issues to cover up the holes they've made. One fact that SrA Angelique Tavira didn't realize...I was on leave/"time off" when she said I came in and spoke with her. I have...you guessed it! My leave papers and the documents in my medical record.
SO to the AIR FORCE VET! Thanks for giving me the comment, So I could comment back on how there's the Right Way... and Then there's the "Ellington Fields Way!"
By the way, I haven't even begin to touch what happened to me while I was there and how I was treated!
One last thing I want to get out there! The top officers at 147th Fighter wing or now 147th Reconnaissance wing, Houston Texas which are the same ol people. Col. James Matlock denied me leave/time off and told me to be a work that Monday just 2 days after 6 weeks of radiation treatment. Like Margaret had written in her article. She also wrote as an ending to her article that I talked to an officer who after listening to my story,told me "Vietnam Vets didn't get anything either". That officer was the Base Commander Col. Lanny B McNeely. When You have that attitude about your troops serving under you then it's a sad day. That is sad that these 2 top officers are in charge of the care of your son's and daughters who want to make a difference.
I want to applaud Margaret,the editor of the press for her article about me. She knows as well as I do there's alot more not mentioned. But unlike the "Air Force Vet". I know you Could Not and DO NOT represent the Brave men and women who are fighting for our country. I'm ashamed you call yourself a vet and possible still wearing the uniform.
I would suggest if you have a comment do not hide behind any names,and to know the actual facts, and if you want to continue lets compare my notes...to yours. I'm ready...are you? Because I haven't even cracked the surface....yet!!
God bless all those who have served past and present...even the "Air Force Vet"...but you need a time out!
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B 08/01/2008 10:10:00 PM
Its so sad that someone who risks their life for our country gets this kind of treatment. No wonder why they're so many homeless people who are war vets. Irony, this country speding millions n millions on causes in other countries and oh so worried about others but THEIR own. The goverment needs to realize that people like Jason Franco risked their lives for this country and now he needs help, not help but what he deserves. My God, he developed cancer by being in the service. I hope this gets the attention of people and we open our eyes and see whats really happening with our troops. Thank you Jason for what you did while in the service and God bless you and your family.
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Air Force Vet 08/01/2008 6:02:00 AM
Margaret
After reading your article concerning Mr. Franco and as an Air Force Veteran, I am very troubled about the lack of investigative journalism used by you the writer and you the editor of the Houston Press.
It is not the base or the National Guard that determines a member's disability benefits. It is the VA. It is public law written by the US Congress and available via the internet.
As a veteran, I know that to be eligible for severance pay per the regulation, I have to have 6 years of continuous active duty without a break in service. Did you review the continuous active duty service of Mr. Franco? Maybe by reg Mr. Franco isn't allowed severance pay.
As for free TRICARE, Mr. Franco would have required to have been deployed within 6 months prior to his discharge, you can see the information on the TRICARE website. You stated in your article that he last deployed in 2002. So, it is already obvious that he's not entitled to TRICARE. The catch, TRICARE does not continue indefinitely for any service member after they are released from service. The VA are the people he needs to talk to, not the Air Force because at this point Mr. Franco is a Veteran not a military member. IE: his case is handled by the VA and not the DOD. So for his "re-designation", he's going to the right place.
You state that Mr. Franco is "somehow convinced that he should have been given a medical retirement", and then state the number of years required. You were right, there. Why didn't you do the same investigative journalism work for the rest of the claims in your article? All Air Force Instructions are available on the internet. The people at the base would have to follow these instructions when discharging Mr. Franco. And if Mr. Franco was certain of his entitlements, he could have shown you copies of his orders. The orders would reference the instructions and allow you to write a conclusive story.
It sounds like Mr. Franco wants a retirement from the Air Force and a disability from the VA. Unfortunately, depending on how you look at it, Mr. Franco doesn't meet the minimum number of years required for retirement. He does, however, have a service connected disability from the VA.
It is unfortunate that some service members think they were done wrong. When the law states the member isn't eligible, it's the law. It is what it is. If you or Mr. Franco don't like it, work to have the law changed.
