As we observe Veterans Day, I ask you to reflect on the service and sacrifices of our veterans, both past and present. This year, as our military continues to be engaged in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, let us also take the time to honor our troops, as well as their military families, who serve on the front lines.

As a proud veteran, I am pleased that Congress has achieved a long list of accomplishments for our service members this year. Even after passing the largest increase in Veteran’s funding in history, Congress continues its commitment to support veterans and their needs. Just last week, we passed additional legislation that put our veterans, troops, and their families first.

Congress has significantly improved veterans’ benefits and care at the VA. The American Recovery and Investment Act (ARRA) included $1.4 billion in new funding to improve medical facilities throughout the country and reduce claims delays. New funding has strengthened health care for more than 5 million veterans, resulting in the addition of 17,000 new doctors and nurses, and more access to clinics and Vet Centers, particularly in rural areas. It has been critical to meeting the needs of the 363,000 veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan in need of care over the last three years.

Today our troops are returning home with injuries that require different care than in the past. To acknowledge these changes, Congress has increased funding for mental health needs, including post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries. One-third of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan face mental health challenges. Thousands more of our men and women in uniform are suffering from traumatic brain injuries.

The conflicts we face today come with different injuries, and we can’t afford to ignore or minimize the impact they have on veterans or their families.

These are some positive steps forward. However, our nation must continue its commitment to leave no soldier behind, and proved the best possible care and quality of life for our veterans. I will continue to work on behalf of our veterans as long as I serve in Congress. On behalf of the Second Congressional District of North Carolina, I thank all of our veterans for the service and the sacrifices they and their families have made. May God Bless our veterans, our troops and our military families. And may God continue to bless America.