As the 21 April vote on the redistricting referendum draws near, TV ads supporting and opposing the measure are frequent. In several, former military personnel offer their opinion. I know they are formar military because they make sure to point it out. Unstated is because of their service the opinion they express should carry more weight, but the implication is clear.

Those individuals (unlike active duty) have every right to participate in those commercials. As retired military I believe all who served should receive the respect of their countrymen, but the notion that their (or my) opinion is worth more than that of others bothers me.

I'm retired military and I approve this message.

Agreed.

Never been in the Military myself, but I have a great deal of respect and admiration for those who have. My dad was a decorated WWII vet. Back to the subject, politicians and others who tout their military service as a credential irritate the hell out of me. Put it in your resume to be sure, but you don't have to shout it out as your only or most important characteristic. In a smallish way it is valor that has been stolen from all those vets who prefer not to strut, or claim special privileges for having served.

What is in the past cannot be changed. If you're a politician, speak about the future (and stick to your campaign promises {except you, SPAM Burger})!

And, oh yeah, VA voters get out and vote "NO" to the proposed change to redistricting procedures!