Uncivil Service

Let me add my backing to ex-Sgt. Jack Thiessen's letter Nov. 5. I also approached a receptionist at the VA Clinic on South Florida Avenue and received the same 'get lost' greeting. So much for Southern hospitality.

My story is similar to Mr. Theissen's: The Department of Veterans Affairs had been my only source of medical care since 1998, because I couldn't afford private doctors or prescriptions. The doctors and nurses at VA facilities in Philadelphia, Lebanon, Camp Hill and York were outstanding, and the nonmedical employees really tried to help us cantankerous old fogies. God bless them all.

And then I moved to Florida. First I got the bum's rush out of Lakeland. In Tampa, after hours of waiting and then having to rewrite my medical history before I could see a doctor, I had an interview and was promised I would be assigned a primary physician. That was May 29. I have not heard from anyone from the VA since.

Luckily I found a health-insurance plan that actually is better than the VA plan, and I found employees who are better trained in manners than our 'civil servants.' My leaving the VA system will hopefully provide a place for a more deserving GI.

Obviously the VA is overloaded here. While the medical staffs perform their duties like ladies and gentlemen, the 'other people' take out their frustration on the new guys.

HANK KULWICKI

Former Platoon Sergeant.

Company D, 259th Infantry

Lakeland