VVA's Annual Congressional Testimony - and More

BY BILL PATON, CHAIR

In testimony delivered on February 24, VVA President Tom Burke encouraged Congress to end the systemic challenges and bureaucratic delays that can cost veterans’ lives.

Rooted in VVA’s Founding Principle, “Never Again Will One Generation of Veterans Abandon Another,” Burke reminded lawmakers that VVA was formed out of the skepticism and disillusionment faced by Vietnam War veterans after their return home. That history has shaped the organization into a steadfast advocate for all veterans, guided by the lessons learned when a nation fails to support its warriors.

The testimony placed a strong priority on the full accounting of POW/MIAs. Burke expressed concern that reducing budgets for recovery work could undermine faith with families and current service members. He also called for accountability regarding toxic exposures, urging serious research into the health effects on veterans’ spouses and descendants.

Addressing veteran suicide and homelessness, Burke noted that both often stem from delay, diffused responsibility, and the complexity of navigating systems of care. He emphasized that risks persist when administrative processes stall, and he rejected the notion that veterans should wait for action.

He concluded by saying that VVA will ensure that veterans are not used as political leverage and we will continue to advocate for the urgency and care every service member has earned.

Government Affairs is serious work because the consequences are real. As I step into the chairmanship of the GA Committee, I do so with deep respect for its history and with a promise to strengthen its impact for those we serve.

My approach is rooted in teamwork and follow-through. I want to encourage team meetings, open and constructive discussions on differing perspectives and real-world issues, thoughtful inquiry, and the prioritizing of solutions that serve veterans and their families.

As the newly appointed Chair, my pledge to you is clear: to lead with integrity, diligence, and a relentless focus on improving the lives of those who have served. Together, with your input and collaboration, we will continue to advance the mission of Vietnam Veterans of America and uphold our promise to the nation’s veterans that we will not abandon any veterans.

Tom Burke has appointed Bill Duncan as the committee’s chair.

“I am honored to continue the vital work of this dedicated group.” Duncan said. “Our mission is clear: We are fighting to clear a path from the streets to stability. We remain committed to aggressive oversight of major infrastructure projects for long-term independence, including the West LA VA Center, the Oregon State Veterans Home in Roseburg, and the Veterans Skilled Trade Center in South Dakota.”

The committee’s mission, according to Duncan, “is evolving. VVA has officially expanded the committee’s focus to include assisted living facilities and nursing homes. As our generation and those who follow continue to age, we must ensure access to quality long-term care as a moral imperative. We must prepare for this transition now, ensuring that every veteran can age with the care, dignity, and respect they earned through their service.”

Duncan, who served as a president of Roseberg, Oregon, Chapter 805 for seven years and the Oregon State Council President for two years, said that, as the committee chair, “I will utilize my lifetime of community-building expertise to ensure that dignity is defended at every stage of a veteran’s life. We will work tirelessly to ensure our brothers and sisters are given the stability they deserve and the respect they are owed.”

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