The Honorable Anthony J. Principi

Secretary
of
Veterans Affairs

10/31/03
Letter to the editor:
DO NOT TEAR DOWN "BLUE STAR" LIVERMORE VETERANS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Many military veterans are not only saddened but angry about the Veterans Administration planning to CLOSE "BLUE STAR MEMORIAL" LIVERMORE VETERANS HOSPITAL after they have spent millions & millions retrofitting it for earthquakes etc. Closing this Palo Alto Veterans Hospital would be a grave mistake because many needy veterans and registered voters on the west coast and indeed across our United States are asking that it survive the big VA ax. We have heard enough about the cost reductions on the horizon and the reasons for taking hospitals facilities away and replacing it with a veterans small clinic. I think it is all unfair and someone is blowing smoke our way. Why? Because we don't think they will want to close this beautiful "BLUE STAR" Memorial Hospital. However, the final decision is due in the near future.
We believe there is over 100 acres of pristine land at Livermore Hospital and it is surrounded by the huge SYCAMORE GROVE PARK, of which there is a part there in "named veterans park". Nearby is Del Valle Regional Park. Across from the road from the hospital entrance is "The golf course at Wente & grape fields with a visitor & tasting center. To see this beautiful peaceful area take a drive about 4 or 5 miles South of the City of Livermore to 4951 Arroyo Rd and note all the wild life in the area.
If you agree with this message, I sincerely request that all readers of this letter send a FAX to: The Honorable Anthony J. Principi
Secretary of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20420
Phone: (202) 273-4800 FAX: (202) 273-4877
Thank You for your cooperation:
James H. Tate
500 N. Palm St.
Turlock, Ca.
Sgt-at-Arms/ past board of directors
Turlock American Legion
& Life Member Turlock VFW# 5059