Muskingum Co. Veterans Rally

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – A rally for veterans was held today in front of the Muskingum County Courthouse. 

The Muskingum County Democrats organized the rally to bring awareness to cuts being made to the Veterans Administration by the federal government. Muskingum County Veteran of the United States Navy Tom Ruggles shared why this rally was important to him.

“There are a lot of former servicemen, veterans in Muskingum County who rely on the VA system for their healthcare. I can’t imagine how cutting 20 or 25 percent of the staff of the VA is going to improve healthcare. It’s… it can only make it worse. It’s an important service,” Ruggles said.

The Zanesville rally was held in conjunction with hundreds of other demonstrations that took place across the country. Many motorists waved and honked their horns in support of those who have stood up and fought for our freedoms. Muskingum County Air Force Veteran Barney Reilly explained the important role that the VA plays in his life.

“I had an operation while I was on active duty and they had to replace my cornea in my eye. And they had to do that twice. So I’ve been going to their clinics and hospitals since I retired,” Reilly said.

Both veterans noted how seemingly insignificant cuts could lead to unintended consequences, which would cause more harm than the intended accomplishments of savings.