Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• Congress plans to welcome the largest group of veteran lawmakers in eight years.

• New legislation aims to expand private healthcare options for veterans.

• A VA center in Montana has received it’s fifth consecutive five-star rating after nearly being closed.

• Indiana VA is launching a call service designed to help veterans.

• The VA just started a breakthrough to study the use of MDMA to treat PTSD and alcoholism.

• The tale of the first Asian-American to be commissioned as a Marine officer.

• And more…

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Stories

Congress Welcomes Largest Group of Veteran Lawmakers in Eight Years

Next year, Congress will include 100 members with military experience, the highest number in eight years and an increase of three from the previous session. However, this number will soon drop to 98 as two veteran lawmakers—Sen. JD Vance and Rep. Michael Waltz—are expected to step down for other government roles. Despite a 5% decrease in veteran candidates this election cycle, the increase highlights a shift toward post-9/11 veterans, with 32 starting their service after 2000 and 37 having partial service during that period.

The next session will also feature the most women veterans ever in Congress, with nine members, including Iowa Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks. The 98 veteran lawmakers will comprise 19 senators and 79 representatives, with 26 Democrats and 72 Republicans, reflecting a growing recognition of veterans as leaders across party lines.

New Legislation Aims to Expand Private Health Care Access for Veterans

House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Bost, R-Ill., introduced the "Complete the Mission Act" to enhance veterans' access to private health care through the VA. The bill seeks to codify access standards established by the 2018 Mission Act, ensuring veterans receive timely referrals to community care when needed.

Under the current standards, veterans can access private care if wait times for primary or mental health care exceed 20 days or if travel to a VA facility is over 30 minutes. Bost's legislation also includes new provisions for publishing wait times, improving scheduling processes, implementing substance abuse screenings, and updating reimbursement rules for private care providers.

Supporters argue the bill addresses barriers to private care access, particularly for veterans in rural areas. Critics, including Rep. Mark Takano and D-Calif, caution that expanding private care could strain the broader healthcare system and emphasize the need to invest in VA facilities and staffing instead.

The bill faces slim chances of passing in the current congressional session but may see renewed momentum in the next legislative cycle. Lawmakers on both sides continue to debate how best to balance community care with strengthening VA services to meet veterans' needs.

Miles City VA Facility Achieves Five-Star Rating for Fifth Consecutive Quarter, Two Years After Facing Closure

The Montana VA's Miles City Community Living Center (CLC) has received a five-star rating for the fifth consecutive quarter, excelling in categories like unannounced surveys, staffing, and quality. This achievement marks a significant turnaround from 2022 when the facility faced potential closure due to limited use.

Supported by the PACT Act, the center remained operational and now exceeds VA Rocky Mountain Network and national standards. Recent evaluations found zero deficiencies, solidifying its status as a top-performing facility in veteran care.

📜 VBA Updates

Indiana Veterans Gain Support Through New "One Indiana Call Line"

The VA has launched the One Indiana Call Line, a centralized resource connecting Indiana Veterans to patient advocacy services. This one-stop hotline helps Veterans, Veteran Service Organizations, and Congressional offices address concerns more efficiently while enhancing collaboration with local VISN networks.

The call line ensures a seamless experience for Hoosier Veterans, focusing on resolving concerns quickly. However, it does not handle medical issues, appointments, benefits, or crises.

Veterans can reach the One Indiana Call Line at 1-844-463-8387 (1-844-IND-VETS). Veterans should contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 for crises, then press 1. Local clinics and My HealtheVet remain the primary contact points for medical or appointment needs.

⚕️ Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Updates

VA Begins Groundbreaking Study on MDMA Therapy for Veterans with PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorder

For the first time in over 50 years, the VA is conducting research on the use of MDMA-assisted therapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder. The VA awarded up to $1.5 million in funding to researchers at Brown and Yale universities for this study, which will take place at the VA medical centers in Providence, Rhode Island, and West Haven, Connecticut.

Previous studies have suggested promising results, with 87% of participants in MDMA-assisted therapy reporting significant improvements in PTSD symptoms. However, further trials were recommended to address concerns about methodology in earlier research.

The VA emphasizes strict safety protocols for this study, using pharmaceutical-grade MDMA with participants closely monitored during therapy sessions. The initiative aims to explore innovative treatment options for veterans facing severe mental health challenges, particularly those who have not benefited from traditional therapies. Officials strongly advise veterans against self-medicating with MDMA or other unprescribed substances.

This marks a significant step in the VA’s commitment to advancing mental health care for veterans through cutting-edge research.

Veteran App of the Week

MOVE! Coach

The MOVE! Coach Mobile App is a 16-week weight management program developed by the VA to help veterans, service members, and their families achieve healthier lifestyles. Designed for self-guided use, the app includes weekly educational modules on healthy eating, physical activity, and behavior changes. Users can set personal goals and access stress management tools, creating a well-rounded approach to weight loss and improved health.

The app also features tracking tools for daily logging of weight, diet, and physical activity, allowing users to monitor progress over time. Available on both iOS and Android, MOVE! Coach can be used independently or alongside healthcare provider support. By combining education, practical tools, and progress tracking, it empowers users to take control of their health and achieve sustainable results.

Military Deals of the Week

*We do not explicitly endorse any of these companies as we have not personally purchased from many of them. We are simply sharing online deals that we have found for your convenience.

• 15% Off: Hyatt Resorts

• 15% Off: Sonos

• 15% Off: Hey Dude

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week:  Kurt Chew-Een Lee

Kurt Chew-Een Lee, born on Jan. 21, 1926, in San Francisco, CA, grew up in a family that instilled a deep respect for discipline, education, and service. His parents, Chinese immigrants, raised him and his siblings to value hard work and perseverance. As a child, Lee was determined to overcome the racial barriers and prejudice of his time, which often motivated his drive for excellence. This tenacity would define his life and military career.

Lee graduated from Galileo High School in San Francisco in 1944 and briefly studied engineering before enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps later that year. Inspired by his belief in serving a country that had given his family opportunity, Lee became the first Asian American officer in the Marine Corps, a groundbreaking achievement during widespread discrimination. His appointment as a second lieutenant was a testament to his abilities and a bold step toward breaking racial barriers in the military.

When the Korean War broke out in 1950, Lee served as a first lieutenant with the 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. His leadership, bravery, and tactical ingenuity during the war would cement his place in history. One of his most remarkable actions occurred in November 1950 during the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Lee's unit was tasked with a critical mission: relieve a company of Marines surrounded by Chinese forces in freezing, mountainous terrain.

Despite harsh weather and overwhelming odds, Lee demonstrated extraordinary leadership. Leading his platoon on a nighttime march through enemy-controlled territory, he used Mandarin phrases to confuse the Chinese troops and maintain the element of surprise. 

Suffering from wounds sustained during the advance, Lee nevertheless pressed on, guiding his men and engaging in direct combat to neutralize enemy forces. His courage inspired his Marines to achieve the seemingly impossible—breaking enemy lines to reach the trapped company.

For his exceptional heroism during the Chosin Reservoir campaign, Lee was awarded the Navy Cross, the second-highest decoration for valor in combat. His actions not only saved lives but also proved the capabilities of minority service members in an era when such contributions were often overlooked.

After the war, Lee continued to serve in the Marine Corps, retiring as a captain in 1968. His life after service was dedicated to advocacy, particularly for Asian American representation in the military. Lee frequently spoke about the importance of perseverance and diversity in strengthening the armed forces. He received numerous honors for his contributions, including induction into the Marine Corps League's Hall of Heroes.

Kurt Chew-Een Lee passed away on March 3, 2014, in Washington, D.C., at 88. His legacy is a testament to courage, determination, and breaking barriers.

From his pioneering role as the first Asian American officer in the Marine Corps to his heroic actions in Korea, Lee's life exemplifies the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. His story continues to inspire future generations to challenge limitations and pursue excellence.

Businesses That Support Veterans

Everyone for Veterans (E4V)

Everyone for Veterans (E4V), founded by Dr. Theresa Cheng, empowers low-income veterans and their spouses by providing essential dental care and support. Focused on those who have completed at least one enlistment period with an honorable discharge, E4V connects civilian dental professionals with veterans in need, offering free services to address gaps in healthcare access.

E4V's impact extends beyond dental care by linking veterans to community resources that address challenges such as PTSD, homelessness, and unemployment. The organization also supports veteran spouses, recognizing their sacrifices and contributions. Through its efforts, E4V improves veterans' quality of life and fosters a community-driven approach to honoring their service.

Thank You For Your Service!

To every veteran reading this—your service, dedication, and sacrifices for this nation are immeasurable. You’ve taken on responsibilities that many will never truly understand, ensuring that communities enjoy the freedoms and security that are too often taken for granted.

Whether you stood on the front lines, served in the skies or seas, or provided critical support behind the scenes, you are the backbone of this nation’s strength. Your resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication are nothing short of inspiring, and your contributions will never be forgotten.

Your service has made this country better, and your sacrifices have left a lasting impact. You deserve all the gratitude in the world for the incredible difference you’ve made.

Thank you for all you have done and continue to do!

Weekly Satisfaction Poll

Until Next Time!

Stay tuned for next week’s edition, where we’ll cover more stories and policy updates and find tools & deals for the veteran community.

Thanks,

The Veterans Newsletter