Mark Kennedy for US Senate

Click here for more

Home / Issues / Page

Veterans

Our Veterans deserve the honor, respect and support worthy of their sacrifices for our freedom. To the brave men and women who have answered the call to defend our lives, our land, and our freedoms, we owe an undying appreciation and gratitude. We also owe these heroes adequate compensation for their unyielding service to their country.

As a member of the House Veterans Caucus and House Reserve Components Caucus, I have made strengthening Veterans’ health care one of my top priorities. In the 4 years I’ve served in Congress, we’ve seen a greater increase in funding for Veterans programs than in the previous 8 years. As a result, 25% more Veterans are receiving health care and waiting lists are down dramatically.

Last year, I strongly supported an historic agreement to eliminate a 100 - year old penalty and give our nations combat-related and service-connected disabled Veterans full concurrent receipt. This benefit, which was passed into law, will provide over $22 billion to more than 250,000 disabled military retirees over the next 10 years.

I’ve also gone to great lengths to work for those currently in uniform by increasing GI benefits nearly 50%. In a show of respect for all service members both active and retired, I have repeatedly cosponsored a Constitutional amendment to prohibit the desecration of our flag.

Today, our Nation finds itself at War and we again rally behind our men and women who have stepped forward to serve in our Armed Forces. We have an obligation to provide these Americas with the tools necessary to win the War on Terrorism, the best possible health benefits and support their families left behind. I will continue to support our brave men and women of uniform and work tirelessly for the compensation they so justly deserve.