There has been a lot of critical press coverage about the VA top management. But I have received treatment that’s second to none from Highland Drive, Oakland —and most of all, the Butler facility. I have been seen at every sector at least once and have been treated with respect and dignity, including by the maintenance, housekeeping and food service personnel.

Let’s see a local hospital top this, for example: I had a biopsy scheduled for 1 p.m., was taken at 12:55 and back in my car at 1:30.

My nurse practitioner was one of the smartest and most dedicated people I have ever been around. She got my diabetes under control and had me lose weight between visits — she would not accept anything less for me.

I could cite example after example, but for all the staff at these facilities, it’s time to say thank you for your service.