Veterans

The greatness of America is best exemplified by the selfless sacrifices of our veterans who protect and defend the freedoms we enjoy.  That is why the federal government must meet and exceed its commitment to the men and women who have served in uniform by ensuring access to affordable, quality health care, increased educational and business opportunities, housing assistance, and a robust pension.  Additionally, we must ensure that those who are returning home with service-related conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury receive the help they need.  I am fully committed to protecting benefits for veterans and their family members, who also make tremendous personal sacrifices for the security of our country.

Here at home, I’ve worked to expand and improve veterans’ health care services in suburban Chicago.  Thanks to a great idea that came to me in July of 2008 from two of our local veterans, we’re working to convert the vacant Silver Cross Hospital property in Joliet into a veteran health care facility.  I’ve worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, the Department of Veterans Affairs and Silver Cross Hospital to move the project forward.  Currently, Silver Cross officials are reviewing final versions of the ‘Offer to Sell’ and the Veteran’s Administration anticipates turning the Emergency Room at Silver Cross Hospital into an outpatient mega-clinic in early 2012.  For more information on the Silver Cross project, click here.