Nation renews committment to its soldiers

Editor:

As Americans confront today's turbulent economy, our thoughts turn frequently to the challenges that we have overcome in the past: not only economic downturns, but also two World Wars and major conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

It is only right that, as our nation once again faces a challenging moment, we should renew our commitment to the soldiers who carried us through these conflicts - a commitment that is especially poignant this Memorial Day, as we also remember those who gave their lives in service to

our nation.

I have considered it a priority in Congress to overhaul the VA system, which has too often faced neglect and underfunding in the past. Over the last two years, I have worked in Congress to secure $16.3 billion in veterans funding increases - more than the total increase from 1995 through 2004.

This new funding was an important first step toward fulfilling America's promises to our veterans. Even now, further important steps are underway:

ä Under the job-creation bill that Congress recently passed into law, every veteran who receives VA benefits is eligible for a one-time, $250 economic recovery payment. The benefit will be provided either through the Veterans Administration or, for veterans who are also eligible for Social Security, through the Social Security Administration. These payments will make a major difference in the lives of veterans, many of whom have been hit especially hard in the ongoing economic crisis.

ä The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed crucial legislation to match veterans' benefits to the ever-rising cost of living. The Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act provides for regular increases in basic compensation for disabled veterans, as well as in dependency and indemnity compensation for their survivors and dependants. As the costs of food, shelter, and other expenses continue to rise, this legislation will help to ensure that veterans and their families can afford the costs of everyday living.

ä The House also passed legislation to renew the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program, which helps homeless veterans to find safe, decent, affordable housing. The bill authorizes a further $10 million to help women veterans and veterans with children through job training, child care services, counseling, and placement services.

ä In addition, the Veterans Emergency Care Reimbursement Act will shield veterans from the high costs of emergency care. The bill requires the VA to reimburse veterans for emergency treatment in non-VA facilities if a third party is not

responsible for the full costs of care.

Please know that the challenges facing Texas veterans will remain among my top priorities in Congress. If you are a veteran and have any questions about the bills above or your benefits, or if my office may assist you in any other way, please do not hesitate to contact us at (202) 225-1640 or to visit our Web site at www.cuellar.house.gov.

U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar

D-Laredo