Veterans Day is a time to honor and show respect for the many brave men and women who have served our country in the military. Every year the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) touts the accomplishments of veterans, citing all-time feats and awards that they have accomplished throughout history. Unfortunately, these successes at times overshadow the major problems that many veterans face in the present.
For instance, a Veterans Affairs report published in 2017 revealed that veterans struggle to receive proper medical and mental health care services due to long wait times and understaffing. The report also highlighted the persistent issue of veteran homelessness across the country, along with difficulties in using veteran benefits. Although the VA has made efforts to address these issues, they remain a salient problem that must be addressed.
The VA has experienced ramification from the Trump administration’s reelection prospects, as veterans’ issues have largely been sidelined. Meanwhile, high-profile stories have revealed the ineptitudes of the VA system, such as filing errors that cost veterans their benefits, including pensions and healthcare commendations. Consequently, veteran advocacy groups have had to take up the cause to ensure that returning veterans receive the benefits that they deserve.
As Veterans Day approaches, it is important to remind ourselves that our nation’s veterans have achieved incredible feats throughout history, but there is still much work to be done to ensure that their current-day needs are addressed. We owe it to our veterans to do better and to work towards providing them with improved services from the VA, so that they may lead lives of dignity and security when the return from military service.
“Unprecedented Feat! VA Acknowledges Veterans Before Veterans Day – But Challenges Still Persist.
