Veterans group looking for Purple Heart recipients

By Cassidy Friedman

May 3, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) --
A military veteran should treat a DD214 like a Social Security card.

The document, which details dates of service, lists operations and medals, education and type of discharge, also contains the veteran's Social Security number. That's something no vet wants getting in the wrong hands.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart, a congressionally chartered service organization, is combing Twin Falls today to find any veterans wounded in combat who have "fallen through the cracks." The organization is assuring concerned veterans they are not asking for the Social Security number on the form.

"We actually have to see some paperwork on it," said Robert Lenigan, of the organization's Idaho chapter.

Having a medal isn't enough, he explained: "You can buy a Purple Heart."

The organization is not associated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, but it's standard for the VA not to promote private membership organizations, said Sandy Smock, a spokeswoman for the VA in Spokane, Wash.

"Usually their intentions are good," Smock said.

Veterans who feel uncomfortable giving out their Social Security information are free to redact the number from the form.

"We're looking for new members," Smock said. "If we don't get new members, baby, this organization in 20 years will not exist."

Meeting is today
A briefing on the Military Order of the Purple Heart will be held today from

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Canyon Springs Red Lion, Twin Falls
On the Web: www.purpleheart.org

Newstex ID: KRTB-0206-24990064