Congresswoman Hochul Announces Veterans Advisory Council At Veterans Town Hall In Lancaster

Press Release

Today, Congresswoman Kathy Hochul held a Veterans Town Hall at the VFW Post in Lancaster, where she announced her newly formed Veterans Advisory Council.

"As we prepare to celebrate Veteran's Day tomorrow and honor the brave men and women who have served our country in the name of freedom and democracy, it is important we renew our commitment to the nation's more than two million troops and reservists, their families, and the 23 million veterans, including the nearly 47,000 veterans right here in New York's 26th District," said Congresswoman Hochul. "This advisory council will help keep me informed on current issues and events affecting veterans in our district. Now, more than ever, we must maintain focus on taking major steps to help our men and women in uniform obtain good jobs when they come home, as well as provide them with the necessary resources to live fulfilling lives. We have an obligation to make sure our veterans have the necessary tools to navigate this difficult labor market and succeed in the civilian workforce."

Hochul's advisory council consists of:

* Edward Damico, Member of the American Legion Post 567 in Orchard Park and the Military Officers Association of America,

* Chris Kreiger, President and CEO of WNY Heroes,
* Michael Lancer, Co-Chair of NY State Bar Association's Special Committee on Veteran's Legal Issues,
* Dr.Patrick Welch, Director of the Center for Veterans & Family Services at Daemen College, and
* Ted Wilkinson, President of the Wyoming County Joint Veterans Council and District Director of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

In addition to announcing her advisory council, Congresswoman Hochul brought together representatives from WNY Heroes, the Western New York Veterans Housing Coalition, the Buffalo/Niagara Regional VA office, the Buffalo VA, and the Center for Veterans and Veteran Family Services at Daemen College for a panel discussion that covered different veterans' services provided by each organization and resources available to Western New York veterans.

Those in attendance had the opportunity to hear about services available to better their lives, including help finding good-paying jobs and starting their own small businesses, applying for home loans, increasing educational opportunities, and receiving proper medical benefits.

In an effort to get as many veterans back to work, as quickly as possible, Congresswoman Hochul has already supported:

* Providing tax credits to businesses who hire veterans looking for work,
* Strengthening crucial employment training programs for separating service members,
* Encouraging businesses and government contractors to hire the brave men and women who have developed valuable skills and professionalism while in the armed forces, and
* Ensuring that service members leave the military career-ready.

Representative Hochul added, "On the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldier behind. As a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no veteran behind."

Source