I am writing this letter in reference to the fire which took place at the Veteran's House on Friday afternoon leaving 21 people homeless.

In accordance with holding a position of Yachad-Penn State Friends of Israel, we members share an office with the vets in the HUB. Under these circumstances, I have become acquainted with many of the members of the veteran's club.

I have seen vets ranging from the ages of 20 to 40 come in and out day after day planning and organizing events for those who have served in the armed forces.

I show great pride when I see how dedicated these students are; their will to study, and their ability to interact with each other, even despite their age differences.

I went to the meeting held Friday night in the HUB Fishbowl to talk to my friends and help them cope with the tragedy.

I do not believe that unless you have been through the experience that you know the ordeal. Nothing could be salvaged. All 21 members who once lived in the vets house lost all of their possessions!

Have you ever seriously thought about it? You must consider losing your pets, all of your money, books, clothing, nostalgia, etc . . .

Many of the members who lost their home have not found permanent housing for the rest of the semester.

I feel that it is our duty as students at Penn State, and moreover as human beings, to help in any way we can.

These are not just the average, run-of-the-mill students. These are citizens who believed it was their duty to fight for this country. I think we should show them the same respect and help them as much as we can with the agonizing months they have ahead of them.