TO ALL CONCERNED:

We have formed a Veterans Coalition in the Acadiana Region to attempt to get a VA Hospital in this region. The opportunity exists to make this happen due to the current Our Lady of Lourdes facility’s imminent vacancy. We would like the VA to seriously consider acquiring this facility as a VA Hospital for veterans in and around the Acadiana Region. This is mainly due to the extensive travel incurred by veterans for medical benefits. We feel that a local VA facility would enhance the care of the veterans in the Acadiana Region. Taking into consideration a veteran has to travel from Lafayette or surrounding area a minimum of 180 miles round trip. Dependent upon his/her condition, this could be a quite trying journey.

We are requesting the support of ALL veterans, veterans organizations, dependents, local communities neighboring Lafayette, as well as all elected local officials (Local, State and Federal). Furthermore, we request the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs collaboration in this endeavor.

We feel we must rally together to impart the seriousness of our efforts. Without the aid of all those mentioned above, our staunch uphill battle will be more arduous. Therefore, this is a major appeal to all veterans organizations to champion this undertaking.

Make no mistake, this is an uphill battle. This was tried in the Hammond area and failed. We are examining what was done to ensure the same things done with the Hammond attempt are not repeated. Our aim is to be SUCCESSFUL.

Thank you for your genuine support in this endeavor.

Please return a copy of the approved letter ( a copy can be downloaded here) signed by the leader and the secretary/adjutant of the organization with approval by the voting body to the following address:

VETERANS ACTION COALITION OF ACADIANA

Rodney Hamilton

217 Crickdale Court

Youngsville, LA 70592

For any further information, you may contact Rodney Hamilton at 337-856-0092. Rodney can also disclose the next meeting date and location.