Democratic lawmakers have sent a letter to President Bush, protesting the Pentagon plan to raise Tricare fees for military retirees. They note that, according to Administration officials, the fee increase would “force 600,000 veterans out of the Tricare system.” (Perhaps that is the plan.) The legislators call the proposal “unconscionable” and maintain it will only “exacerbate” a growing recruiting and retention problem.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
