This article addresses a serious and growing problem, that of the homeless veteran. By stating that they "lead the nation in depression, suicide, substance abuse and homelessness," the author is informing us of the severity of the situation from the get-go, and the statistics he includes makes it all the more poignant.

The author is economical with his words, he does a lot with a little--it's an effective piece.
This article--published on Veteran's day--definitely delivers the intended emotional oopmh, especially in its closing line.