Editor, Gazette-Journal:

 This Nov. 2, the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia will have the opportunity to make history by helping those disabled veterans who, because of their service to our country, have been determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs to be 100 percent disabled.

 On this year’s ballot there will be a change to the Constitution of Virginia to be voted on which will exempt these 100 percent disabled veterans from real estate tax on the home they and their family reside in. As of this writing there are 7,358 100 percent disabled veterans in the commonwealth. The best estimate is that only up to 4,200 100 percent disabled veterans own their homes.

Will this legislation allow more 100 percent disabled veterans to be able to own their own home? Maybe. But will it make it easier for those who do? The answer is Yes. Because of their 100 percent disability rating, their ability to secure employment is nonexistent and disability income for most is their only income. Owning your own home has been part of the American dream, and we all should be able to experience the American dream, especially those men and women who have sacrificed themselves for the defense of our way of life and this country.

 The Disabled American Veterans of Virginia are asking for your help regarding this piece of legislation on this November’s ballot. We encourage you to vote for this change in the Constitution of Virginia. This is an opportunity to show your patriotism by supporting this effort. We see things every day on the news or read about how citizens are doing something to help veterans. Here is a way that you can do that by simply checking a box or flipping a lever saying "Yes, I want to support this change." Nov. 2 is just around the corner, and you, as a citizen of this Commonwealth, can have a profound impact on the life of a 100 percent disabled veteran by voting for this Constitutional change. We respectfully request your help.

Richard Moore, adjutant

General Anthony Wayne Chapter 58

 Disabled American Veterans