I think the vast difference in compensation between 9/11 victims and those who die in military service is profound.

Those who lost a family member in 9/11 received an average of $1.185 million (a minimum guarantee of $250,000, and maximum of $4.7 million).

For a survivor of an American soldier killed in action, the first check is a $6,000 direct death benefit, half of which is taxable, and $1,750 for burial costs. Surviving spouses get $833 a month until they remarry. Then there’s payment of $211 per-month for each child, but it comes to a screeching halt when the child turns 18.

Some people who are getting an average of $1.185 million are complaining it’s not enough.

Those deaths were tragic, but for most, they were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Soldiers put themselves in harm’s way for all of us; they and their families know the dangers.

Some of the victims from the Oklahoma City bombing have started an organization and are now asking for the same deal as 9/11 victims. In addition, families of those bombed in embassies are asking for compensation as well.

This is part and parcel of more than 50 years of entitlement politics in this country. It’s sad. Each time a pay raise comes up for the military, they usually receive next to nothing.

Meanwhile, the troops’ families live on food stamps and in low-income housing.

Make sense?

Jamey Lebel, Buckfield

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