Veterans Day Statement from Senator-elect Jeff Merkley

"I have had the pleasure to speak with many current and former members of the Armed Forces as I have traveled across Oregon during the last year, and I am continually in awe of the dedication our veterans show both during their service and after they return home.

"As we honor our service members this Veterans Day, we must remember that today is only the beginning of the recognition these brave individuals deserve for all they have given to our nation.

"There is no way we can fully repay the debt we owe to those who have served the United States in the Armed Forces, but we can begin by ensuring that we keep the promises we have made to them.

"Among the things we can do are:

• Immediately enact concurrent receipt benefits allowing disabled veterans to collect their full retirement pay when they leave service.

• Increase funding for mental health services to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

• Provide proper screening and treatment for Traumatic Brain Injury for returning veterans.

• Fully fund the VA health care system.

• Continue the expansion of educational opportunities for veterans who have fulfilled their service commitment to our country.

"Our country faces many challenges at this moment, but we cannot allow America's veterans to be lost in the shuffle. As Oregon's next U.S. Senator, I will fight to expand educational opportunities and improve medical treatment and mental health services for our men and women in uniform. It is our duty as a nation to honor the commitments we made those who have sacrificed so much to keep us safe."

Posted November 11, 2008
Press