Our Veterans
Being a combat veteran myself, I am acutely aware that our community is home to many brave men and women who have served our nation in the armed forces. These veterans have sacrificed much in defense of our freedoms, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the support, care, and opportunities they have earned.
Unfortunately, many of our veterans face significant challenges upon returning home. These issues include accessing quality healthcare, securing stable employment, obtaining proper housing, and receiving the mental health support necessary to transition back to civilian life. As your representative, I am committed to making veterans' issues a top priority.
Healthcare Access
Every veteran deserves timely and comprehensive healthcare. However, too many of our veterans face long waits, travel great distances, or struggle to navigate the complexities of the VA system to receive the care they need. I will work to improve access to healthcare services by advocating for the expansion of community-based outpatient clinics, increasing telehealth options, and ensuring that no veteran is left behind due to bureaucratic red tape.
Employment Opportunities
Our veterans possess unique skills, discipline, and work ethic, yet many find it difficult to secure meaningful employment after their service. I will champion policies that provide tax incentives to businesses that hire veterans, support job training programs specifically tailored to veterans, and collaborate with local businesses to create pathways for veterans to reenter the workforce in well-paying jobs that value their experience.
Housing Security
No veteran should ever face homelessness. Unfortunately, too many of our heroes struggle to find stable, affordable housing. I will advocate for increased funding for veteran-specific housing assistance programs, work to expand access to affordable housing in our rural communities, and support initiatives that provide transitional housing and supportive services to help veterans rebuild their lives.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
The mental health of our veterans is a critical concern. The invisible wounds of war, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, can be as debilitating as physical injuries. I will push for expanded mental health services, increased funding for veteran counseling and support programs, and the creation of a state-wide task force dedicated to suicide prevention among veterans.
Honoring and Remembering
Beyond providing services and support, it is also important to honor and remember the sacrifices of our veterans. I will support efforts to preserve and enhance memorials, provide state recognition for the service of our veterans, and promote educational initiatives that teach future generations about the contributions and sacrifices of our military members.
Our veterans have given us their best, and it is time we give them ours. As your representative in the US House, I will stand up for our veterans every day, working to ensure they receive the respect, care, and opportunities they deserve. I humbly ask for your support in this campaign, and together, we can make West Virginia a place where every veteran can thrive.