Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• The VA extends temporary research positions by 90 days to prevent disruptions to ongoing medical studies amid staffing cuts.

• The VA moves forward with EHR modernization while cutting 585 contracts, raising concerns about deployment delays and patient care.

• The Pentagon approved 21,000 resignations as part of a workforce reduction plan that could eliminate up to 70,000 civilian jobs.

• A new AI-powered job matching tool helps veterans translate military experience, build resumes, and connect with civilian employers.

• The VA ends gender dysphoria treatment for new patients, limiting care to those already receiving treatment through the VA or DoD.

• The tale of a WW2 hero

• And more…

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Stories

VA Grants 90-Day Extension for Research Positions Amid Uncertainty

The VA has issued a 90-day extension for temporary research appointments, providing short-term relief for medical studies disrupted by recent layoffs and a hiring freeze. The move aims to prevent disruptions to clinical trials and ongoing research, but the long-term future of affected projects remains unclear.

The VA’s research partnerships have contributed to significant medical advancements, including the invention of the pacemaker and the first CAT scan. However, recent staff cuts and appointment cancellations have left researchers struggling to maintain continuity in critical studies, including those focused on opioid use among veterans.

While the VA says the extension will allow time for a comprehensive review of ongoing research, questions remain about what will happen when the extension expires and whether previously terminated staff will be reinstated. Some researchers warn that losing key team members has already delayed projects, making it challenging to meet long-term study goals.

VA Cuts EHR Support Contracts Amid Push for Faster Rollout

The VA is accelerating its Electronic Health Record (EHR) modernization but with fewer contractors. The VA recently canceled contracts with six service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses, part of a broader cut affecting 585 contracts.

Despite assurances that veteran care won’t be impacted, sources warn that losing contractor support staff could slow deployments and affect patient care. The VA plans to launch the new Oracle-Cerner EHR at four Michigan sites by mid-2026, but challenges remain. The Inspector General has linked EHR failures to patient harm, and the GAO reports that 94% of VA medical centers will still rely on the legacy VistA system well into the next decade.

With fewer resources and a faster timeline, questions remain about whether the VA can modernize its EHR system without further disruptions to veteran care.

Pentagon Approves 21,000 Resignations Amid Civilian Workforce Cuts

The Pentagon has accepted nearly 21,000 employee resignations as part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s plan to reduce the military’s civilian workforce by 5-8%, which could ultimately eliminate 50,000 to 70,000 positions.

The Defense Department (DoD) implemented a hiring freeze to reach that goal, halting around 6,000 new hires per month and beginning to lay off probationary employees. However, a court order has temporarily blocked the planned termination of 5,400 workers, requiring the government to reinstate affected employees.

The rapid downsizing has confused the military, with some employees caught in limbo during job transfers and others volunteering to resign without official approval. While Hegseth argues the cuts will improve efficiency without affecting military readiness, critics, including lawmakers in Washington, have questioned the strategy’s long-term impact.

📜 VBA Updates

New AI-Powered Job Matching Tool Helps Veterans Find Meaningful Careers

INvets, a nonprofit focused on helping transitioning service members find civilian careers in Indiana, has launched a new AI-powered job search tool in partnership with Bridge My Return (BMR). This free platform helps veterans overcome common employment challenges by translating military skills, generating professional resumes, and matching them with vetted job opportunities.

The platform allows veterans to create a skills-based profile, apply for jobs with one click, and connect with employers actively seeking military talent. Employers benefit from a ranked list of qualified candidates, making hiring more efficient.

This initiative addresses underemployment, a major issue highlighted by LinkedIn’s Veteran Opportunity Report, and aims to ensure veterans transition into meaningful, well-matched careers.

⚕️ Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Updates

VA Ends Gender Dysphoria Treatment for New Patients

VA Secretary Doug Collins has announced that it will no longer offer medical treatment for gender dysphoria to veterans who are not already receiving such care through the VA or the DoD.

Previously, the VA provided hormone therapy, prosthetics, and supportive treatments for transgender veterans, though it did not offer gender-affirming surgery. The agency will continue to provide general healthcare to transgender veterans but will not initiate new cases of gender dysphoria treatment.

The policy change follows a recent executive order directing federal agencies to recognize only two sexes, male and female. The VA estimates that fewer than 0.1% of veterans identify as transgender.

Last week, the VA also rescinded prior guidance that outlined transgender patient care, including policies on pronoun usage and room assignments in VA facilities. The change comes as the Pentagon has paused gender-affirming care for active-duty service members, a policy currently facing legal challenges.

Veteran App of the Week

Healthy Minds

Healthy Minds is a mental wellness app designed to help users build resilience, manage stress, and improve emotional well-being through guided meditation and mindfulness practices.

The app provides veterans with accessible tools for mental health support, including meditation exercises, breathing techniques, and structured programs focused on reducing anxiety, improving focus, and fostering emotional balance. By offering scientifically-backed mindfulness training, Healthy Minds helps veterans navigate the challenges of stress, PTSD, and daily life transitions.

Healthy Minds empowers veterans to strengthen their mental resilience, develop coping strategies, and enhance overall well-being through guided practices, progress tracking, and a flexible approach to mindfulness that fits into any schedule.

Veteran Community Highlight

VFW Post 10822

Established in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs, Georgia, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10822 is dedicated to serving veterans who have participated in foreign conflicts. The post provides a platform for camaraderie among veterans and actively engages in community service initiatives.​

VFW Post 10822 offers various programs, including veteran outreach, community service, and safety initiatives. The post also addresses critical issues such as suicide prevention and POW/MIA recognition. By fostering a supportive environment, the organization ensures veterans receive the assistance and recognition they deserve. ​

The post collaborates with local organizations to enhance its impact. It supports events like Dunwoody's Veterans Day Ceremony, working alongside the Dunwoody Woman's Club and Dunwoody Parks and Recreation. These partnerships highlight the post's commitment to honoring veterans and promoting community engagement. ​

Through its dedication, VFW Post 10822 continues to significantly impact the Dunwoody and Sandy Springs communities, ensuring veterans and their families receive the support and recognition they have earned.

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.

• 25% Off on Federal Tax Filings: TaxAct

• 10% Off: Hexclad

• 8% Off: Hotels.com

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Colonel Robert G. Cole

Born on March 19, 1915, at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX, Robert George Cole was the son of Colonel Clarence F. Cole, an Army doctor, and Clara H. Cole. Immersed in military life from an early age, Cole graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1933 and enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 1, 1934. His dedication and aptitude led to his appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1935, where he graduated in 1939.

Commissioned as a second lieutenant, Cole initially served with the 15th Infantry at Fort Lewis, Washington. In 1941, he transferred to the 501st Parachute Infantry Battalion at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he earned his jump wings in March. His rapid ascent through the ranks culminated in his promotion to lieutenant colonel, taking command of the 3rd Battalion, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.

On June 6, 1944, during the D-Day operations in Normandy, Cole's battalion parachuted into France, marking their first combat jump. By June 10, Cole led 400 men down a long, exposed causeway toward Carentan, a strategic objective. His unit was pinned down by intense enemy fire from well-fortified German positions. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, Cole ordered a bayonet charge—a rare tactic in World War II. Leading the assault personally, he inspired his men to overcome the enemy defenses, securing a critical bridgehead across the Douve River. This courageous action, later termed "Cole's Charge," resulted in significant casualties but was pivotal in the mission's success.

Tragically, on September 18, 1944, during Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands, Cole was killed by a German sniper near Best while marking his unit's position to prevent friendly fire. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on December 8, 1944, for his gallantry during the Normandy campaign.

Cole's legacy endures through several commemorations. Robert G. Cole High School at Fort Sam Houston and Cole Park at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, are named in his honor. His story is also featured in the "Brothers in Arms" video game series, bringing his heroism to a new generation. In 2009, a monument was unveiled in Best, Netherlands, near the site of his death, honoring his sacrifice.

Lieutenant Colonel Robert G. Cole's unwavering courage and leadership exemplify the highest ideals of military service, and his memory continues to inspire.

Businesses That Support Veterans

Advancing the Line for Veterans (ATL)

Advancing the Line for Veterans is a nonprofit organization that supports veteran professional development. By focusing on career advancement and networking opportunities, the organization empowers veterans to transition successfully into civilian careers.​

Through workshops, mentorship programs, and business partnerships, Advancing the Line for Veterans aims to equip veterans with the skills and connections necessary for meaningful employment. This mission facilitates individual growth and strengthens the community by integrating veterans' unique experiences and leadership qualities into the workforce.

Thank You For Your Service!

Not every service member may receive the Medal of Honor or garner widespread recognition, but that doesn't diminish the invaluable contributions each one has made to the sanctity and security of our great nation. 

The saying "freedom isn't free" holds profound truth–it resonates because every individual in the United States relies on the dedication of its military to safeguard the freedoms they enjoy. Each veteran has consciously defended these liberties, symbolizing a collective commitment to the nation's well-being. 

Whether you fought on the front lines or provided crucial support behind the scenes, thank you!

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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