Rep. Tim Huelskamp: Love, honor all who fought for freedom

Since taking office, I have had the privilege of greeting hundreds of Kansas veterans visiting Washington, D.C., as part of the Honor Flight network. This incredible program is an opportunity for these men and women to visit the memorials erected in their honor, as well as remember those missing and those who gave the last full measure of devotion in service to our country.

On this Veterans Day, let us take some time to listen to their stories, thank those who served, and reflect upon the meaning and significance of freedom.

We must also evaluate what happens when soldiers return home from conflict with mental health needs, physical limitations or struggles to readjust to civilian life.

Assistance for veterans often comes in the form of community partnerships, family or religious institutions – those that practice love and honor well. But for many, much of their care is delivered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Unfortunately, it’s an understatement to say that the VA does not have a reputation for delivering the care and services veterans need and deserve.

As a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, I have worked with my colleagues to pursue aggressive oversight of the VA.

Over the past year Congress has passed laws to require the VA to allow more veterans to choose care in their communities, to improve mental health care services, and to fire poor-performing senior VA bureaucrats.

But there is still a long way to go.

This Veterans Day, let’s all do our part to love and honor those who fought for our country and for freedom.

This story was originally published November 10, 2015 at 6:02 PM with the headline "Rep. Tim Huelskamp: Love, honor all who fought for freedom."