Honoring America's Veterans

Statement

Dear Friends,

On Veterans Day, we come together to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation's brave men and women in uniform. New Mexico is home to a large number of veterans, and I hope you will join me in thanking the members of our community who answered the call to serve.

As important as it is to support America's soldiers on the battlefield, we must also support veterans and their families here at home. No veteran who returns from serving our country should have difficulty accessing the benefits they deserve. No veteran should face homelessness or poverty. No veteran should have to suffer in silence from the invisible wounds of war such as post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. As the Representative in Congress for New Mexico's First District, I'm working hard to ensure that our nation fulfills its solemn obligations to veterans and their families.

Last month, I introduced the Veterans' Independent Living Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation to help disabled veterans live independently and participate in family and community life. I'm proud that this bill has already received the support of a dozen different veterans' and health organizations. The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) said, "IAVA supports this strong bipartisan legislation which would help more disabled veterans get the care and services they need to live independent, successful, and fulfilling lives." That's something every veteran deserves, and that's why I'm working to remove barriers that make it difficult for veterans to transition from military to civilian life.

Last week, I donated my pay from the government shutdown to an Albuquerque non-profit that works to reduce homelessness among veterans by providing transitional housing, employment training, counseling and other supportive services. I had the privilege of meeting with the organization's staff and volunteers and was truly inspired by their dedication to serving those who have so selflessly served our nation.

As a country, we all have a responsibility to honor, support and respect America's veterans. When you see a veteran or active duty service member today and every day, take a moment to thank them. I know that I will.

Best regards,

Michelle Lujan Grisham
Member of Congress
First District of New Mexico

P.S. Don't forget to sign up for my e-newsletter for updates on my work in Congress on behalf of New Mexico. As always, if I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my Albuquerque district office at (505) 346-6781.

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