U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, led the final two annual joint hearings of the House and Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs. These sessions focused on legislative presentations from 16 veteran service organizations (VSOs).
“I am grateful for the work that VSOs do every day to support veterans and their families, caregivers and survivors and to advocate for the timely, high-quality health care and benefits that they have earned and deserve,” said Sen. Moran. “The work we do in our committees would not be possible without the tireless work and dedication of organizations like the ones we will hear from this morning.”
During one of the hearings with The American Legion, Sen. Moran introduced Dan Wiley, The American Legion National Commander and a resident of Leavenworth, Kansas.
“I saw how my classmates at home in Kansas were treated upon their return to the U.S. following their honorable service in Vietnam,” continued Sen. Moran. “I told myself as a 16-year-old kid that I will do everything I can to pay my respects and honor those who served. To my fellow Kansans, I never expected to be a member of Congress, to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, to serve in the U.S. Senate, and with that responsibility of service came something more than just saying ‘thank you’ and ‘I respect you’… Members of this committee, members of the Senate & House of Representatives, Republicans and Democrats take it seriously to try and make certain we do the things that keep our promises to those who served in Vietnam, around the globe and in the U.S.”
Over three annual joint hearings this year, members heard from 24 different VSOs about issues affecting veterans nationwide.
The Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee has played a role in advancing social progress by improving access to VA health care services and helping veterans transition into civilian life. The committee operates within offices located in the U.S. Capitol complex (source). As part of its mandate within the United States Senate structure, it works closely with entities such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (source). Its responsibilities include oversight over veterans' programs across all states (source), ensuring effective delivery of benefits, health care services, and related programs (source). Senator Jerry Moran serves as chairman while Richard Blumenthal holds the position of ranking member (source).
Video links were provided for Sen. Moran’s questioning during hearings with both The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
