Detailing his dad’s problems with VA, Albuquerque man chokes up while questioning Obama

Albuquerque man chokes up asking Obama about VA

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Andrew Cavalier choked up when he tried asking a question to President Barack Obama about the Veterans Administration.

During Obama’s visit to his parents’ home for what was billed as a backyard conversation, Cavalier wanted to know Tuesday what the administration has done to assure that veterans get needed services and care. His father, a former Marine, has faced several health issues over the years.

But Cavalier didn’t get very far before his voice cracked and the words stopped. Not only did the president step in with a reassuring hug, he offered an answer that satisfied Cavalier.

“We love your dad. We appreciate what he’s done,” Obama said, encouraging Cavalier to continue.

“The reason I get emotional …” Cavalier said.

“Is because he’s your dad,” Obama finished.

“Well, unfortunately, at the VA sometimes he doesn’t get the care and the services that he should. I mean, he sacrificed his body,” Cavalier said, fighting tears.

Obama reassured him before saying his administration has increased funding for VA facilities to address backlogs in services and claims processing, especially after a crush of younger military personnel began returning from tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

He also pointed to educational services for military personnel and their families that have allowed soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines to attend college.

“We have a sacred trust with people who put on the uniform of the United States,” Obama said. “They’re willing to put their lives on the line. That means when they come back, we’ve got to serve them.”

Obama also told Cavalier there’s no reason to apologize for being emotional about his father’s military service.

“I get emotional, too, when I think about our young men and women who have served this country with such bravery and courage,” Obama said.

After the event, Cavalier said veterans like his father deserve courtesy and understanding from the VA. He said he felt satisfied with the president’s response.

“I just wanted to see that some sort of steps are taken,” he said. “I know it’s not easy. Obviously, there’s a lot of politics involved. But I just wanted to see that it’s at least on their minds, even at the ground level, that it not just that they’re throwing money at it.”

Andy Cavalier rose to staff sergeant during a 13-year career in the Marines that ended in 1990. He told reporters he has endured 25 surgeries for problems with his feet, ankles, knees and sinuses, along with treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.

He said he no longer has complaints about the agency but indicated he believes some VA doctors are not sensitive in handling veterans with PTSD and other problems.

“Sometimes, they cut you off, tell you there’s not enough time,” he said. “I had a few doctors rush me through it to get me in and out. There’s a lot of issues you’ve got to take care of when you only see them for a month, three months, six months.”