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WASHINGTON – Ahead of the observance of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, released the following statement and video.
“On Veterans Day, the United States of America shows appreciation for the men and women who have served in the armed forces,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Every day is a good day to thank a veteran, but on Veterans Day we make a point of it. Those who wore the uniform with honor and dignity are the best of the United States and deserve the best of the United States.”
“As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, it is my privilege and honor to continually advocate for veterans. To all our veterans who traveled across the world to preserve our freedom at home: thank you,” continued Dr. Cassidy.
“Please know that while you have hung up your boots, you will always have the gratitude and support of the American people. We are home of the free because of you—the brave!” concluded Dr. Cassidy.
Background
As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Cassidy has consistently fought to ensure that veterans receive the support and benefits they have earned through their service to America.
Last month, Cassidy and Senator Angus King (I-ME) led their Senate colleges in writing a letter urging the Department of Labor to remove barriers for veterans seeking job opportunities. The letter requested that Assistant Secretary James Rodriguez categorize transitioning service members as eligible for career services programs funded by Jobs for Veterans State Grants.
Cassidy also called on the National Archives of the United States to get veterans their essential military records following reports of ongoing delays in constituents receiving their military service records from the National Personnel Records Center. These service records are often required to access critical government benefits and services, so ensuring requests are completed expeditiously is of utmost importance.
Earlier this year, the Senate passed a Cassidy-led resolution to establish “Vets Get Outside Day” to address the veteran suicide crisis. The resolution calls on veterans battling post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges to walk, run, hike, bike ride, or simply spend time outside on June 10, 2023, as part of an effort to battle mental illness.
Last year, the Senate unanimously passed Cassidy’s Solid Start Act to strengthen the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Solid Start program to contact every veteran three times by phone in the first year after they leave active duty. The program helps connect veterans with VA programs and benefits, including mental health resources.
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