On Thursday, March 16th at the Military Women's Memorial in Washington DC, I along with many others had the honor of being invited to witness a historical event, the introduction of the new VA mission statement. For many years individuals and organizations have asked for the change to be more encompassing of those that the VA serves. This is a progressive movement forward and I hope to see more changes to follow.
At this event, that was streamed live, VA Secretary McDonough stated, "President Lincoln demanded, just as President Biden expects, that we serve all Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors-regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or creed. This mission statement puts words to what you do every single day. Honoring the service and sacrifice of ALL Veterans in this way-by the names hanging above VA facilities and the mission statement adorning our walls-is an important and necessary next step to improving access, providing care and services, delivering outcomes and earning Veterans' trust."
"To fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors.''
Watch it here
View photos here