While the "veteran" claim can be as Ann Coulter has pointed out "an argument from 'human shield'" it is also true that veterans, and especially war veterans, do have a perspective that needs to be heard.
When doing agricultural policy, it's good to get all the politicians and their budget and science folks in the room.
But occasionally someone should ask a farmer for his opinion.
But occasionally someone should ask a farmer for his opinion.
Or get Sally Fields to testify. ;-P