DUBLIN, Ga. — For 17 years, the Sons of Confederate Veterans in Dublin ran a free picnic for veterans, but now, the Carl Vinson VA says they can't continue unless they leave the Confederate symbols at home. 13WMAZ talked to the commander of the Confederate group and the Dublin VA to see if the two sides can make peace.
"It's really veterans wanting to help other veterans," John Hall said.
That's how Commander John Hall describes his group's annual cookout, but after his conversation with the Dublin VA this month that might not happen this year.
"Specifically, what he said to me was that one of the VA patients made a complaint about us being there, specifically, the motorcycle guys," Hall said.
Hall says Dublin VA director David Whitmer got complaints from some veterans and staff about their cookout.
Medical Director David Whitmer wouldn't speak to us on camera but sent us this statement that says:
“Dublin VA Medical Center simply informed the Sons of Confederate Veterans that in order to continue having its event on the Dublin VAMC campus, it must obey federal laws that prohibit weapons on VA property and refrain from displaying Confederate symbols, the German Iron Cross, or other World War II-era German symbols. These are the same rules and regulations that apply to all groups holding events on the Dublin VAMC campus.”
"That statement is such a blatant lie and a fabrication," Hall said.
Whitmer says the group has two options either hold the event on the campus without wearing confederate symbols or hold the event some place else. He added the VA would provide transportation and medical care for veterans who want to attend.
"As far as obeying federal laws that prohibit weapons, nobody has ever brought a gun onto the VA campus. As far as displaying Confederate symbols, some of the motorcycles might have a little Confederate flag on it," Hall said.
Hall says he wants to speak with any veteran or VA staff member who might not understand his groups' purpose
Hall says he's hoping for another conversation with Whitmer and an apology.
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