The VFW National Legislative Committee members met with senators, representatives, and staffers in Washington, D.C., to discuss the VFW’s legislative priorities. Specific focus was given to cracking down on predatory claims companies, consistent access to VA benefit enrollment for service members, and the role of economic opportunity benefits in helping to prevent veteran suicide. The VFW will continue to advocate for these issues to assist service members, veterans, and their families.
Senate Confirms New VA Deputy Secretary
The Senate voted to confirm Tanya Bradsher to be the VA deputy secretary. Bradsher is a 20-year Army veteran, and she will be the first woman to serve in this role. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) released a statement in which he commended her record of serving. As VA Chief of Staff, she oversaw the implementation of the PACT Act.
VA End-of-Life Benefits
VA has launched a campaign to inform veterans and their family members about end-of-life benefits. Being aware of available benefits and services before a veteran passes away can help make it easier to navigate the process and plan ahead. Talk with your VA provider for more information.
POW/MIA Update
Army Pfc. Roy J. Searle, 22, of Providence, Rhode Island, was assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 357th Infantry Regiment. He was mortally wounded on Dec. 9, 1944. He will be buried on Sept. 13, 2023, in Lake Worth, Florida.
Army Air Forces Pfc. Glenn A. Harris, 26, of Monterey, California, was captured on April 9, 1942, and died as a prisoner of war on July 26, 1942. He will be buried in Bradley, California, on Sept. 30, 2023.
Army Air Forces Flight Officer Chester L. Rinke, 33, of Marquette, Michigan, was assigned to the 678th Bombardment Squadron. He was killed in action on June 26, 1944. He will be buried in Seville, Ohio, on a date to be determined.
Army Sergeant Stanley Turba, 27, of Russellton, Pennsylvania, was a member of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion. The Army issued a presumptive finding of death on Feb. 23, 1954. He will be buried in Columbus, Ohio, on a date to be determined.
Army Air Forces 1st Lt. Charles G. Reynolds, 24, of Bridgeport, Ohio, was assigned to the 498th Bombardment Squadron. He went missing in action on Nov. 27, 1943. He will be buried in Bridgeport, Ohio, on a date to be determined.
Army Air Forces 1st Lt. George W. Winger, 25, of Columbus, Ohio, was assigned to the 66th Bombardment Squadron, 8th Air Force. He went missing in action on Aug. 1, 1943. He will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, on a date to be determined.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
