Too often, while our young men and women are at war, America is at the mall.

Such was not the case this past Saturday at Bosque Farms, just south of Albuquerque. This community showed up in force to share the pain, suffering, pride and honor of their wounded hero. Senior Airman Michael Malarsie suffered severe injuries to his face and head in an IED explosion just after the first of the year. You can read more of his story on his blog

I first heard about Saturday's benefit for Michael during an interview I was doing on the Jim Villanucci show, a young man called in to talk about it and invited me to attend. Of course I accepted and Saturday I was honored to speak to the very large crowd gathered to not only honor their local hero but also to raise money to help with the expenses to the family.

A veteran's honor guard, New Mexico United States Volunteer was there to present the colors. Local young people performed; there were tributes, acknowledgements, memories, silent auctions and a community meal. The community was wrapping their arms around one of their own who has paid a terrible price.

While I was at this event, I met another of our brave young men, Army Sgt. Erik Schei and his parents. Erik suffered grave injuries during combat in 2005. His family spares no energy or expense in getting the latest treatments to facilitate his recovery.

Our government should do the same and invest in these young men in honor of their sacrifices.

When I was in Congress, I saw many Wounded Warriors who suffered significant injuries, but who can still perform vital tasks. I submitted legislation to insure that if they chose, they could continue their military careers.  The Pentagon fought and ultimately killed the bill. That is a shame.

It takes approximately 7 people on the back lines for every soldier on the front lines. Young men and women who are in wheel chairs, wear prosthetic limbs, who have lost hearing or vision or a host of other injuries can still fully function in a multitude of tasks including training, information technology, planning, human relations, etc.

During Viet Nam, the significantly injured warriors were given Disability Checks and sent home. Most never got another job because of their injury. The more powerful solution would be to accommodate those with injuries to have careers and earn their own way.

Life is far more than a paycheck. Let our veterans contribute to society and let them earn their own way. The significance of that is important to us all. Their presence would be a source of pride for them and our nation.

We should pay the disability pay for those who are too badly injured or who do not want to continue in the military, but many of our soldiers wanted to continue to serve. They should be given that chance.