The Tribune Democrat - Rothfus Picks Military Advisers

News Article

By Dave Sutor

Three local retired military men with extensive community service backgrounds are going to help U.S. Rep. Keith Rothfus, R-Sewickley, study the needs and concerns of active service personnel and veterans.

The 12th district's congressman recently appointed Johns-town's Tom Caulfield and Tom Haberkorn, along with Somerset's Robert Sembower, to his Military and Veterans' Advisory Board. Rothfus' panel consists of 11 individuals from southwestern Pennsylvania.

"I believe it's an honor to be appointed by Congressman Rothfus," said Caulfield. "It's very important to get on a committee. I'm honored to be on it."

Caulfield was a specialist in the Army. He is currently the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania's regional director. Sembower rose to the rank of brigadier general in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

Haberkorn served in the Air Force and the state's National Guard. He is involved in numerous organizations, including the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 364 and Disabled American Veterans.

All of the other members have served in the military.

"It's a really good spectrum of experience on the board," said Sembower.

Rothfus described the group's goals by saying,

"This panel of local service members and veterans will help me as I work in western Pennsylvania and in Washington, D.C., towards solutions

for challenges including the VA disability claims backlog and the deadly outbreak of

Legionnaires' disease at the Pittsburgh VA. We also

have to take measures to address veterans' homelessness, suicide, and mental illness and to help our veterans find jobs."

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