We watch our sons go to war, disagree with the rationale for sending them, loathe the men who ordered them to battle, and then, when the veterans come home, beg and plead with the local V.A. to ensure they have access to proper care.

The quote "We watch our sons go to war, disagree with the rationale for sending them, loathe the men who ordered them to battle, and then, when the veterans come home, beg and plead with the local V.A. to ensure they have access to proper care." by J.D. Vance highlights the disconnect and hypocrisy in how society treats its soldiers. Vance reflects on the complex relationship between the public and the military, where people may question or oppose the reasons for war and the decisions made by political leaders, but once soldiers return home, there is a societal demand for them to be properly cared for, often through government institutions like the Veterans Administration (V.A.).

Vance’s quote suggests that, while society may criticize the decisions that lead soldiers to war, it is ultimately veterans who bear the physical and emotional costs of war. The public’s resentment toward those who send soldiers into battle contrasts with the responsibility of ensuring that the veterans are supported once they return. This reflects a broader societal issue where the valorization of soldiers is sometimes not matched by adequate systems of care for their well-being.

The origin of this quote can be found in Vance’s reflections on the political and social dynamics of modern warfare, as discussed in his book Hillbilly Elegy. In his writing, Vance explores themes of working-class life, family, and American society, and this quote exemplifies his critique of how the country treats those who are sent to fight. The irony Vance highlights is rooted in his own experiences with military service and the disparity between public opinion and governmental actions regarding the treatment of veterans.

Ultimately, Vance’s quote calls attention to the inconsistency in how soldiers are both sent to war and cared for afterward. It encourages reflection on how a society that may criticize the causes of conflict still holds responsibility for providing the necessary support and care for those who have been sent to fight in its name. The quote underscores the need for a more holistic approach to supporting veterans, both during and after their service.