To the editor:

I want to thank the Lawrence Journal-World for publishing Michelle Singletary’s article concerning Social Security (Aug. 16). This article is a very clear and comprehensive statement of the role Social Security plays in our country, about all it does for so many people.

I would like to add one thought for people to keep in mind in making up their minds about the proposed changes in Social Security. That is, simply, that Social Security benefits accrue to not only individuals and their families but also to the welfare of their parents and grandparents and, hence, directly to their own financial advantage. I can remember the days when people were concerned about “not being a burden” to their children as they get along in years. It is a multi-generational benefit.

Not only is Social Security “one of the most successful government programs in this country’s history” as stated by Ms. Singletary, but I would add that the GI Bill is an example of another highly successful government program. Think of all it did for so many people and for our society as a whole. These things are part of our wonderful heritage.

Howard Baumgartel,

Lawrence