Making a Difference for Vietnam War Veterans Now and in the Future

BY PETE PETERSON, CHAIR

As we reflect on our past achievements, it’s important to recognize the tremendous efforts made by VVA’s Government Affairs team. The year 2024 was a remarkable success, and we are excited to share that 2025 is shaping up to be equally productive. Our team has hit the ground running, engaging with the new administration and key leadership on both sides of the aisle.

A key highlight has been the strong collaboration between the Government Affairs Committee and our dedicated full-time staff. Executive Director James McCormick has been instrumental in increasing our presence on Capitol Hill. His leadership, along with the efforts of Deputy Executive Director John Stovall and Chief Legislative Officer Michael Fimmano has fortified our position.

Additionally, we have enhanced our work on toxic exposures through a consultant, Ron Brown, a Gulf War veteran with extensive knowledge in that area. Our partnership with Toba Communication, a digital marketing company, has also begun, further strengthening our outreach. We are blessed with our consultant, Jim Kuhn, who brings a level of professional knowledge to the team.

I want to emphasize the critical role VVA members and their families play in our advocacy efforts. By signing up for our weekly updates and legislative alerts, members can stay informed and actively participate in our initiatives. Your individual voices matter greatly to Congress, and when you respond to our calls to action, it amplifies our collective impact.

As for the current 119th Congress, we have identified several key legislative priorities that will guide our work. We will be tackling legislation focusing on issues that resonate deeply with our principles and mission. Our founding principle— “Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another”—remains our guiding light, ensuring we advocate not just for our generation, but for future generations as well.

Our top priorities include:

1. Full Accounting of POW/MIAs: We demand a thorough accounting of all American service members still listed as POWs or MIAs.
2. Toxic Exposure Studies: We are advocating for comprehensive studies to investigate the long-term health effects of toxins on veterans and their descendants.
3. Blue Water Navy Veterans: We will work to rectify the unjust benefits limitations placed on veterans exposed to toxins beyond the arbitrary 12-mile limit.
4. Veteran Suicide Prevention: Addressing veteran suicide is paramount. We will push for policies that ensure that immediate mental health care is available to every veteran in crisis.
5. Recognition of Service: We will continue to advocate for proper recognition of veterans’ service, understanding that acknowledgment can have a significant impact on mental health and overall well-being.

We also aim to improve Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and seek Congressional Gold Medals for those who served in support roles during the Vietnam War, recognizing their invaluable contributions.

I urge each of you to engage in our advocacy efforts. Reach out to your representatives, communicate our priorities, and make your voice heard. Your participation is crucial to our success and ensures that the legacy of Vietnam War veterans remains strong for generations to come. We shall perpetuate our message through legacy-building and efforts to continue this mission long into the future by providing a comprehensive and effective Government Affairs program that keeps the heart beating for VVA.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our mission. Together, we can make a difference.

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