In response to Frances Earl's column in Thursday's edition, I would like to take the opportunity to set her facts straight. ...more

May 13, 2008

Democrats are sharply questioning a U.S. aid program that has reimbursed Pakistan's military $6 billion since 2001 for anti-terrorism operations along its Afghanistan border, contending the program has grown too costly. ...more

May 7, 2008

President Bush sent lawmakers a $70 billion request Friday to fund U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan into next spring, which would give the next president breathing room to make their own war policy. ...more

May 3, 2008

At a ceremony Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park on U.S. 301, 191 miniature U.S. flags were added to the Operation Field of Honor memorial. ...more

January 13, 2008

The Highlands County Commissioners are thinking about a stipend for combat veterans. This should be for all combat veterans and not just Iraq and Afghanistan. We veterans put our lives on the line just like those of Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans are doing. ...more

December 31, 2007

The United States should redeploy troops from Iraq, allowing the military to focus on terrorist threats in Pakistan and Afghanistan, New York Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand said Saturday. ...more

December 30, 2007

It appears the Highlands County Commission is going to step up and do something good to support our troops who have been serving in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's a wonderful gesture and sure to help any local soldiers who have been serving their country and placing themselves in danger. If approved – and it appears it will be – any soldiers who have served in a combat role will receive a $75 per month stipend, for every month they serve in combat, from the county, which could mean an extra $900 per year depending on amount of time. Commissioners are considering this instead of giving a property tax break, which would only benefit troops who own homes. Veterans officials suggested making it a stipend for all combat soldiers, instead of just property owners, since so many of the troops in harms way are young and just getting started with their lives. Some other Florida counties are offering the property tax rebate, but Highlands County would be one of three counties offering stipends. ...more

December 21, 2007

As the year comes to an end, we are faced with a holiday that is the most celebrated in the world. Christmas is a special time of year in this country. Its traditions go back a long way in history. ...more

December 15, 2007

WASHINGTON - Florida's largest National Guard unit, which includes several companies and batteries from the Tampa Bay area, has been alerted that it can expect to be deployed again to Afghanistan in 2009. ...more

December 3, 2007

President Bush on Monday signed a deal setting the foundation for a potential long-term U.S. troop presence in Iraq, with details to be negotiated over matters that have defined the war debate at home: how many U.S. forces will stay in the country and for how long. ...more

November 27, 2007