Obama on VA waiting times: 'It is dishonorable, it is disgraceful, and I will not tolerate it'

WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- President Obama had harsh words for the Department of Veterans affairs Wednesday, issuing deadlines and ultimatums, but falling short of firing Secretary Eric Shinseki.

"If these allegations prove to be true, it is dishonorable, it is disgraceful, and I will not tolerate it, period," the president said, in reference to the VA's inability to serve veterans in a timely manner, leading to further health problems and untimely death.

"We are going to fix whatever is wrong and so long as I have the privilege of serving as commander in chief, I'm going to keep on fighting to deliver the care and the benefits and the opportunities that you and your families deserve, now and for decades to come."

Despite efforts to fix the issues, the president said that firings are still very likely.

"Once we know the facts, I assure you, if there was misconduct, people will be punished," Obama warned.

The president also emphasized the necessity of keeping politics out of a very sensitive and important issue.

"It is important that our veterans don't become another political football," Obama said. "This is an area where Democrats and Republicans should always be working together."