Schock recognizes veterans sacrifices and commitments
Schock discusses legislation he co-sponsored to make it easier for veterans to have access to quality healthcare
Springfield, Ill. – Veterans affairs and helping veterans cut through governmental red tape is a large focus for U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock’s constituent services.
His District office has processed more than 3,000 veterans and military cases since he took office in 2009 – that’s roughly 1,000 per year. His office provides help with getting lost or never before issued medals replaced, increases in veteran benefits through the VA, VA home loan assistance, VA educational assistance, death and burial benefits and more.
“We are grateful for your bravery. We are grateful for all your sacrifices,” Schock said. “We are grateful that you have stepped forward when your nation has needed you most. In return, we need to ensure you are taken care of.”
Schock was a key speaker at the 94th annual American Legion State Convention at the Prairie Capital Convention Center Plaza on July 13.
The American Legion, chartered by Congress in 1919, currently has more than 100,000 members in Illinois in more than 800 posts. The state convention is designed to help boost awareness of the organization and activities that it sponsors.
The community service organization conducts numerous programs including Boys State, Youth Police School, American Legion Baseball, High School Oratorical Contests, Legion Riders, the Legacy Scholarship, iconic sales of fabric poppy flowers and more.
Schock told the veterans that one of his first priorities was to get the Secretary of the VA to sign off on the new Bob Michel VA Clinic and get it built. He said he spoke with the Secretary’s Chief of Staff repeatedly and due to those efforts, the VA agreed upon the funding and construction of the new Bob Michel VA Outpatient Clinic within about six months.
Last year, Schock re-introduced legislation that will help veterans purchase small business by offering a tax credit worth 25% to offset the franchise fees. By providing this financial incentive to veterans who want to open a franchise, we can grow our nation’s small businesses and stimulate economic growth.
Last month, the U.S. House passed a bill led by Schock and others that makes it easier for veterans to access quality healthcare. The amendment directs $16 million to expand pilot programs known as Project ARCH (Access Received Closer to Home) and Project HERO (Healthcare Effectiveness through Resource Optimization).
Schock has co-sponsored or introduced to assist the hiring of unemployed veterans, disabled, surviving spouses, homeless veterans and minor dependents of veterans.
“You in this room and the many others should be honored every day,” Schock said. “Because every new day is another day of freedom in this country. And this country would not be what it is without you.”
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