I read with slight dismay a letter to the editor (Freeman Lewis, June 22)  about poor service he had encountered recently at the Togus VA facility.

First of all, on medications they tell patients to get them renewed 10 days before they run out. In 35 years, I have never failed to get my medications on time. In 35 years, I had to use the emergency room twice. I was seen within 10 minutes each time. Try that at a regular hospital.

Twice, I was there for surgery, etc., and the compassion of these people is second to none. Sure, there are gruff people there — it is just their way.

The nurses and doctors at Togus are my friends, and whenever I am there for something, I always stop and try to say hello and thank them for what they do for veterans.

Andrew Gerrier, Livermore Falls