John Hanson, a past VFW state commander and current member of the VFW National Legislative Committee, discussed VFW’s “10 for 10” list of military benefits and quality-of-life programs that the Administration and Congress have put on the chopping block, explaining why the budget cuts cannot happen. He called on the North Dakota congressional delegation to offer a united voice in support of veterans and the military community when they return to Washington.
During the roundtable, participants also discussed rural health for veterans, funding for post-traumatic stress, support for the children and families of deployed service members, the deep VA disability claims backlog, veterans’ homelessness, and funding for veterans’ outreach.
Congressman Berg said that the U.S. House of Representatives this year has passed 13 pieces of legislation, four of which have been signed into law. Berg also said that North Dakota is home to thousands of veterans who he is proud to represent. He explained that the VA needs to be able to meet the medical and mental healthcare needs of all returning service members, and that they cannot waiver in their support to properly care for veterans.
Hanson said he and the North Dakota VFW will continue to work with their congressman and senators to meet the needs of service members, veterans and their families.
To submit your Field Reports for consideration on the VFW’s Capitol Hill blog, simply fill out our online form here, or send photos and stories directly to vfwac@vfw.org. Information for this story was provided by VFW National Legislative Committee member John Hanson.
