Vets to see improvement in facilities

BRISTOL, R.I. (WPRI) -- Local veterans and their advocates have something else to celebrate this year, after voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot question to improve their living facilities.

Rhode Island residents voted on Election Day to borrow $94 million in order to construct a new veterans home, as well as make much-needed renovations to the current building.

Many of the veterans currently living in the Bristol home were pleased with the passing of Question 4, which was approved by a vote of 77 percent to 23 percent.

"It's an old building, and it leaks," said Korean veteran Mike Duffy. "I was glad, it was about time."

Duffy tells us there are no words to describe the sacrifice of military service.

"Look what they've done for us, that's the biggest thing. Some of my best buddies in here lost their limbs," he said. "They've given just about everything."

• Related: Veterans Plead Case for Question 4

Duffy is very concerned about the younger generation of veterans coming home to a whole new world.

"When they get back they can't get a job, and they need a job, that's lousy," he said.

The new building means a new future for local vets and a reason to be thankful on this Veterans Day.

"I think they are finally getting smart and helping these guys that are coming back from these fighting zones," added Duffy.

We're told the project will take about ten years to complete. The groundbreaking is expected to occur sometime next year.