'Veterans' Viewpoints' Highlights Practical Issues on the Homefront

Veterans and their families have an engaging option for finding out about issues affecting them around La Grange and Western Springs.

Veterans’ Viewpoints, which airs three times a week on LTTV and anytime on YouTube, offers information relevant to people with an interest in the military, from JROTC students to WWII veterans.

Host Chuck Bosko launched the program about two-and-a-half years ago after LTTV filmed the VFW Memorial Day Parade in Western Springs. LTTV Director Bill Allen said he needed another program for adults and together he and Bosko brainstormed Veterans’ Viewpoints.

Since then, Bosko has filmed 20 episodes, hosting everyone from former 11th District Rep. Judy Biggert to the American Legion motorcycle riders who escort servicemen and women home from the airport.

“I’ve met a lot of good people,” Bosko said. “It’s a lot of fun. The nice thing is getting someone to talk. I’m just going to sit back, ask the question and let you run with it.”

Bosko served 21 months of active duty in Vietnam with the 11th Army Cavalry Regiment. He spent 40 years in the reserves and retired in 2009 as a first sergeant. He now works for the American Legion as an accredited service officer helping veterans submit benefit claims.

Bosko recalled an interview with a young woman who was a Marine reservist and veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, which he said was one of the most meaningful shows he’s done. They talked about the issues that are critical to her, including how to adapt her resume for the civilian world, without military jargon and acronyms.

That’s exactly the kind of relevance he hopes veterans find from the show.

“I think the western suburbs do support veterans on a number of issues, and the show may be something they find interesting,” Bosko said. “So watch it!”

Watch Veterans’ Viewpoints on LTTV at noon Saturday, 8 p.m. Sunday and 6 p.m. Monday. It’s also available anytime on LTTV’s YouTube channel.