VA Press Room

West Point was founded on March 16th, 1802, 221 years ago today. Sue Fulton represents West Point’s trailblazing class of 1980, the first to graduate women. Thank you for challenging me every day to do better for all Vets, and for leading the charge for today’s important event.

Remarks by Secretary McDonough at the Lake Nona Impact Forum.

These past two years, we have delivered more care and more benefits to more Vets than at any other time in our nation’s history; thanks to many people, including each and every one of you. We’re going to keep fighting like hell for Vets, together and for all Vets, to give them the best outcomes. And we’re looking forward to collaborating even more effectively, to build on what’s working, and to fix what’s not.

Our military, the strongest ever on the face of the planet, draws on the strength evident in all corners of our great country. Among the great sources of strength for our Active Duty Forces are rural communities.

VA’s Office of Survivors Assistance answers thousands of emails and phone calls every year assisting survivors with questions and challenges relating to their benefits. That’s what we’re here for. So please, if there’s anything we can do for you, shoot a note to [email protected]. That’s [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns.

Good afternoon. Thank you, Ronald, for the many roles you play here at VA, especially as our agency’s representative to the Federal Holocaust Remembrance Program. Let me also thank the Holocaust Resource Center of Buffalo and its Executive Director, Lauren Bloomberg, who helped organize this event.

Kim Bracey, thank you for that kind introduction. It’s a tremendous honor to join so many extraordinary Veterans and community leaders to celebrate the life and enduring legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

A few weeks ago, I sat in the House Chamber and listened to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s address to Congress, and our country. It was a powerful speech, a memorable opportunity. Being here with you—heroes in your own right—I’m reminded of a few lines from that speech.

Today is a day to honor Veterans; to remember all that they have done for our nation — for each of us; to reflect on those heroes still Missing in Action — heroes whom we miss, we love, long for, and hope to see come home, and soon; and recognize that when Veterans served, their families, their caregivers, survivors sacrificed right alongside with them.

Let me recognize the Press Club’s American Legion Post and its commander, Tom Young, and all the Veterans Service Organizations represented here … you are critical to helping us serve Vets, their family members, caregivers, and survivors.