Saxton addressed leaders of various veteran organizations such as the VFW, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and other veteran and community leaders on the top priorities and issues confronting American veterans. State and county officials were also in attendance.

"I welcome this annual event to hear what is on the minds of our veterans," Saxton said. "The Third Congressional District, which I represent, has the highest concentration of veterans in New Jersey. This is their opportunity to say what's working and what's not. It's traditionally a frank and useful exchange."

Such issues as VA access, length of waiting times, medical care and vet benefits were the planned topics. Saxton, who is a ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, represents both Fort Dix and McGuire Air Force Base, and most of the surrounding military towns.
 
Veterans discussed the popular VA Clinic on Fort Dix, which was opened in 1997 with federal funding Saxton helped acquire. There are an estimated 60,000-plus veterans in the Third District.

"The clinic remains a success story," Saxton said. "Since it opened in 1997 the clinic has become so popular with our veterans that it developed a waiting list. We actually had to hire more staff at the clinic. The veterans who attended this forum in past years helped us identify the problem, and ultimately, come up with a plan with the VA to address it."