Veterans

Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who selflessly and proudly don the uniform of the United States Military. In return for their sacrifice, we as a nation must ensure that we meet their needs on all levels when they return home.

One of the first things I did after being sworn in as a Member of Congress was to tour Walter Reed Army Medical Center. I was honored and humbled to visit with the men and women on their roads to recovery from the wounds of war, as well as meet with those caring for them on their journey. I am committed to ensuring that each Soldier, Sailor, Airman and Marine gets the best care possible for any visible and non-visible wounds they may have. 

When our soldiers return home from deployment, they often have difficulty coping with mental trauma from their experiences.  Some of these heroes sadly turn to drugs or alcohol for relief, which can lead to legal troubles.  I recognize the unique stresses placed on our veterans and do not feel that the traditional justice system is always appropriate for our troubled veterans.  To honor my pledge to do everything I can to help veterans reenter our communities, I fought for federal funding of special veterans treatment courts, a hybrid of drug and mental health courts that serve veterans struggling with addiction, mental illness, or other conditions. This funding will ensure that our war heroes get the help that they need and the support they deserve.

Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to support the commitment this country has made to veterans of earlier generations and previous conflicts our nation has been a part of. I will continue working to ensure the benefits promised are the benefits received, and that the care our aging veterans receive is of the highest quality.