Our Opinion: Extending a program for veterans locally and nationally

In connection with last week's observance of Veterans Day, we were pleased the national program, "Justice for Vets," reinforced our support for veterans courts, including the new one to be established in Cole County.

When the county's newest addition to its specialty courts begins operations, expected in December, it will join the 197 veterans courts launched nationwide since January 2008, when the first was established in Buffalo, New York.

Justice for Vets said veterans courts are "recognized as cutting edge criminal justice reform that saves taxpayer money while connecting veterans in crisis to the benefits and treatment they have earned."

Melissa Fitzgerald, senior director for the national group, said veterans treatment courts "ensure that when our veterans struggle with the transition home and become involved with the criminal justice system - due to substance abuse and/or mental health condition - they receive the structure, treatment and mentoring they need to get their lives back on track."

Fitzgerald's reference to substance abuse is noteworthy, because veterans court follows the establishment of both DWI and drug courts in Cole County.

Each presents a unique set of circumstances, but all are based on alternative to imprisonment for eligible offenders who are willing to commit to and complete a rigorous treatment program.

Some offenders are not eligible for the program, some decline the option and some do not successfully complete or sustain its requirements.

But, for those who do, a new way of living emerges. Former offenders learn and embrace: Recovering from alcohol and drug addictions; coping with past experiences, pains and trauma; and living a responsible, productive life.

Veterans court specifically will extend to service members the same opportunity for treatment and healing now offered to DWI and drug offenders.

Fitzgerald said: "We have made tremendous progress but we must do more to put these life-saving programs within reach of every veteran in. Veterans fought for our freedom; shouldn't we fight for theirs?"

In Cole County, the answer is a resounding "Yes, we will."