The VFW is calling on Sen. Tommy Tuberville from Alabama to lift his hold on the routine promotion of military general and flag officers. VFW National Commander Duane Sarmiento said, “The line in the sand for the VFW is simple: Political disputes must be handled by politicians –– not within the ranks of the all-volunteer force. Sen. Tuberville’s hold on these routine promotions has consequences up and down the active-duty force that will take years to fix.”
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.
50th Anniversary of National Cemetery Administration
VA commemorated the National Cemetery Administration’s 50th anniversary in a ceremony at the newly renamed National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico. During the event, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough commented, “For the past 50 years, VA’s National Cemetery Administration has provided our nation’s heroes with final resting places that honor their service, keep their memories alive, and preserve their legacies long after they pass away. It’s our privilege to serve these heroes with honor and respect, just like they served our country.” VFW Washington Office Executive Director Ryan Gallucci and National Veterans Service Director Michael Figlioli were in attendance.
Prevent Benefits Fraud and Hold Bad Agents Accountable
The VA Office of Inspector General seeks your help in preventing Public Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) fraud schemes. These schemes include either unaccredited agents or unscrupulous health care providers charging unjustifiable fees with promises to exaggerate a veteran’s medical condition to secure a higher rating than the evidence warrants.
Important Dates in October
The month of October has many important days, here are just a few:
Oct. 9 – Columbus Day
Oct. 13 – U.S. Navy birthday (248 years)
Oct. 26 – Day of The Deployed
Oct. 26 – Navy Day
POW/MIA Update
Army Air Forces Tech. Sgt. Turner Y. Johnston, 21, of Loraine, Texas, was assigned to the 98th Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force. He was killed in action on Aug. 1, 1943. He will be buried in Belton, Texas, on Oct. 21, 2023.
Army Air Forces 2nd Lt. Albert W. Stahl, 22, of Buffalo, New York, was assigned to the 93d Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force. He was killed in action on Aug. 1, 1943. He will be buried in Kenmore, New York, in the Spring of 2024.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
