Experience Unrivaled: VA Celebrates Veteran Achievements, But Challenges Still Loom Before Veterans Day.

Every November, Veterans Day serves to recognize the service of all those who have served honorably in the United States Armed Forces. It is a day to pause and reflect on the valiant efforts that have been made to secure our nation’s freedom. This year, the Veterans Administration released a list of facts and figures that emphasize the dedication and accomplishments of those who have served. According to the VA, 28 million veterans are living today, representing a diverse mix of backgrounds, including 2.2 million female veterans, 2.2 million post-9/11 veterans, and 767,000 veterans who are 65 and older. The VA also noted that veterans are successful entrepreneurs who launched or owned over 17.7 million small businesses, employed 5.4 million people across the United States, and contributed $1.14 trillion to the nation’s GDP in 2017. In addition, they provide leadership in their communities by holding elected office in local, county, state, and federal government. One hundred eighty veterans are currently serving in the 115th U.S. Congress. Despite these impressive statistics, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) still faces larger problems. The VA is now the second-largest government agency, with a budget of $180 billion for fiscal 2019. Although the added funds are intended to help reduce wait times, expand services, better utilize technology, and tackle a backlog of denied disability claims, the VA continues to face criticism for its inadequate services and resources. More recently, whistleblowers have spoken out about inadequate services and an insufficient number of personnel assigned to the agency. In 2018, a whistleblower alleged that veterans were dying because of scheduling issues, where appointment times with doctors or veterans’ medical staffs were canceled or postponed at the last minute. The facts and figures the VA has shared can help deepen our understanding of the veteran experience in the United States. This information should also serve to remind us of the importance of quality service and resources for our veterans. As our nation honors those who serve, now is the time to come together and ensure that veterans are receiving the support and services they deserve.