The Land of the Free, Because of the Brave

Every year, on Veterans Day, we pause to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of our country and served in defense of our freedom. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who stood guard over our nation's ideals, from the founding of America to today.

As a proud representative of Central Washington, I have the privilege of meeting veterans who have devoted their lives to preserving the freedoms we hold dear. From their courageous service on battlefields around the world to their ongoing efforts to support the local veteran community back home, our veterans have given more than we can ever repay. But one thing we can and must do is honor the promises made to them by ensuring they receive the care and support they have earned.

Throughout my time in Congress, I have focused on improving the services provided to veterans-whether it's working to improve healthcare access, advocating for better benefits, or streamlining the complicated processes veterans often face when navigating the system. But as much as we have accomplished, there is still work to be done.

One of the most pressing issues I hear from veterans is frustration navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since the Oracle Health EHR system was first implemented in our region, there have been issues with health care quality and patient safety, and it is clear the system needs reform. In May, I proudly co-sponsored the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Program Restructure, Enhance, Strengthen, and Empower Technology (RESET) Act, to modernize and improve the Oracle Cerner EHR system to help solve the ongoing issues. The current rollout has been disastrous, and this bill is an important step toward ensuring the system works for our veterans.

I have also been working to improve the VA Caregiver Program to ensure our veterans have the support they need. The current process of applying for support services for caregivers is a bureaucratic nightmare, which is why I co-sponsored the Veterans Caregiver Application and Appeals Reform (CARE) Act. This legislation would require the VA to employ qualified medical specialists to evaluate program applications and improve transparency throughout the process. By improving the program's operations and providing trained advocates to help veterans and caregivers, we can ensure that those who need assistance receive the help they deserve.

Healthcare is a critical part of supporting our veterans, but ensuring they have the resources to rebuild their lives after service is also vital. Many face difficulties adjusting to civilian life, and the challenges they face are often compounded by the complex processes to access their benefits. To help solve for this, I host an annual Veterans Service Fair to provide veterans with an opportunity to explore the resources available. From healthcare benefits and mental health counseling to employment opportunities and educational assistance, the Service Fair is a chance for veterans and their families to meet with experts, ask questions, and get the support they need to move forward in life.

My office remains a resource for those who have served, and I urge any Central Washington veteran to contact one of my district offices if they need help receiving VA benefits, lost service records, hard-earned war medals, or are having any other veterans-related issues. This Veterans Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to bettering the lives of those who have served. The United States remains the land of the free, because of the brave.

Please visit newhouse.house.gov/service/resources/military-and-veterans for more information on benefits and resources.