Reassessment necessary for Tyne’s comments

In his Sept. 12 letter, Ken Lowen is mistaken in his assessment of Don Tyne.

Tyne is my hero and the hero of countless Iowa veterans who have returned from combat with physical or mental issues related to people trying to kill them or them having to kill enemies of our country. The Linn County Veterans Affairs Office does many things but, most important, assists combat and non-combat veterans in filing claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs so they are eligible for the treatment, referrals or compensation that they have earned while serving in the armed forces.

Lowen is right on one thing. Veterans have many skills that are needed and desired by employers. Along with learning skills that are used in places other than the battlefield, veterans return from their tour of service with more maturity and self-discipline than they had when they went in. I don't think Tyne would work the many long hours he puts in with the Linn County Veterans Affairs and be as dedicated in helping those who have come home damaged with service-related disabilities, if he didn't value all veterans and the sacrifices they have made for their country.

Tyne's comment was taken out of context. He is well aware of the value of our veterans and he proves it every day.

Kurt A. Falkenstein,

Captain, USAF/Ret

Cedar Rapids