Letter to the Editor: 

I read with surprise the comments in the Chester County Press on May 7 that suggested that the Veterans ID & Discount program in my office never got off the ground.  Nothing could be further from the truth!  I launched the program in late 2012 and, to date we have provided over 1,000 photo IDs to Chester County Veterans.

 The Chester County Veterans ID & Discount program provides our veterans with special photo identification when they record their military discharge with my office. This ID designates a person as a Chester County Veteran and provides access to numerous discounts from participating businesses across the county. I provide this service in honor of our military veterans, and at no cost to them.

 While the Commonwealth did enact a new law that allows a veterans’ icon on Pennsylvania driver’s licenses, I have continued my program.  Many veterans’ licenses will not expire for years and others may not hold driver’s licenses at all.  Furthermore, all military veterans residing in Chester County are encouraged to record their discharge papers with my office for safekeeping. Providing this service, along with the local business discounts, is an added benefit to their visit. 

I, too, congratulate Kassidy England for her efforts to honor local veterans. It is wonderful to see young people in our community recognize the sacrifice of our heroes. It is my belief that we can never do enough to thank them. And, as a local veteran once told me: words are nice, but actions mean so much more!

For any veterans residing in Chester County wishing to receive a special photo ID, I encourage you to visit my office on the third floor of 313 W. Market St. in West Chester.  We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 4:30 p.m.  Bring your DD-214 with you! 

Rick Loughery

Chester County Recorder of Deeds