Juan Ciscomani
Representative for Arizona · Republican · United States
“I thank Lieutenant Colonels Rutter and Dwyer, for their outstanding leadership at Davis-Monthan. I congratulate both lieutenant colonels, the 357th Fighter Squadron, and everyone at Davis-Monthan on an extraordinary 50 years of A-10 operations.”
“I thank Lieutenant Colonels Rutter and Dwyer, for their outstanding leadership at Davis-Monthan. I congratulate both lieutenant colonels, the 357th Fighter Squadron, and everyone at Davis-Monthan on an extraordinary 50 years of A-10 operations.”
“This spring, Davis-Monthan also celebrated the graduation of the final class of the A-10C Thunderbolt II student pilots from the 357th Training Squadron, marking the end of A-10 training at the base.”
“This spring, Davis-Monthan also celebrated the graduation of the final class of the A-10C Thunderbolt II student pilots from the 357th Training Squadron, marking the end of A-10 training at the base.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING FINAL FLIGHT OF A-10 AT DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE (Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING FINAL FLIGHT OF A-10 AT DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE (Mr.”
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“As we all grieve this devastating loss, we always remember her smile and kind heart. Linda gave so much to those around her. She will be greatly missed, and her legacy will live on through all of those she impacted, which are many. May my dear friend Linda rest in peace. ____________________”
“Linda was deeply loved and involved in Pima County politics for several decades. From serving as a precinct committeeman since 1972, being a legislative district chairman, president of several entities, chairman of the Pima County party, a vice chair of the State party, and office manager of the Arizona Governor's Office, she dedicated her life to making a difference in Arizona. Linda truly cared about our community and the people around her. She was always there for us. She was a great friend to our family and a big supporter of all of us, as well as many in our community. I am beyond grateful for Linda's leadership, her friendship, and the example she set for those who knew her. Laura and I are keeping the Barber family and their loved ones in our prayers.”
“I thank Lieutenant Colonels Rutter and Dwyer, for their outstanding leadership at Davis-Monthan. I congratulate both lieutenant colonels, the 357th Fighter Squadron, and everyone at Davis-Monthan on an extraordinary 50 years of A-10 operations. The last official A-10 flight on July 29 will be remembered as a significant milestone at Davis-Monthan, and our community will proudly remember this incredible 50-year chapter in our city's history. Honoring Life of Linda Barber Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor a dear friend, Linda Barber, who tragically passed in June. She was surrounded by her family and was certainly welcomed home by her husband, Jim, whom she missed dearly and spoke of often. My wife, Laura, and I are incredibly saddened by this loss to our community.”
“This spring, Davis-Monthan also celebrated the graduation of the final class of the A-10C Thunderbolt II student pilots from the 357th Training Squadron, marking the end of A-10 training at the base. These milestones bear historical significance and represent a longtime connection between the A-10, Davis-Monthan, and the Tucson community. The A-10 Thunderbolt II, nicknamed the Warthog, has great military significance not just in Tucson but across the Nation. Designed during the Cold War to combat Soviet tanks in Europe, this aircraft is the Air Force's only one built exclusively for close air support, or CAS. The A-10 has served the U.S. military for decades. While it will no longer be in use at Davis-Monthan, this aircraft will continue to be an essential asset of our Nation's military.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING FINAL FLIGHT OF A-10 AT DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the last official A-10 flight at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. On July 29, the 357th Fighter Squadron commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan ``Clutch'' Rutter, and the 355th Operations Group commander, Lieutenant Colonel Rodney Dwyer, will mark the end of a phenomenal 50- year chapter of A-10 operations in Tucson.”
“As we all grieve this devastating loss, we always remember her smile and kind heart. Linda gave so much to those around her. She will be greatly missed, and her legacy will live on through all of those she impacted, which are many. May my dear friend Linda rest in peace. ____________________”
“Linda was deeply loved and involved in Pima County politics for several decades. From serving as a precinct committeeman since 1972, being a legislative district chairman, president of several entities, chairman of the Pima County party, a vice chair of the State party, and office manager of the Arizona Governor's Office, she dedicated her life to making a difference in Arizona. Linda truly cared about our community and the people around her. She was always there for us. She was a great friend to our family and a big supporter of all of us, as well as many in our community. I am beyond grateful for Linda's leadership, her friendship, and the example she set for those who knew her. Laura and I are keeping the Barber family and their loved ones in our prayers.”
“I thank Lieutenant Colonels Rutter and Dwyer, for their outstanding leadership at Davis-Monthan. I congratulate both lieutenant colonels, the 357th Fighter Squadron, and everyone at Davis-Monthan on an extraordinary 50 years of A-10 operations. The last official A-10 flight on July 29 will be remembered as a significant milestone at Davis-Monthan, and our community will proudly remember this incredible 50-year chapter in our city's history. Honoring Life of Linda Barber Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor a dear friend, Linda Barber, who tragically passed in June. She was surrounded by her family and was certainly welcomed home by her husband, Jim, whom she missed dearly and spoke of often. My wife, Laura, and I are incredibly saddened by this loss to our community.”
“This spring, Davis-Monthan also celebrated the graduation of the final class of the A-10C Thunderbolt II student pilots from the 357th Training Squadron, marking the end of A-10 training at the base. These milestones bear historical significance and represent a longtime connection between the A-10, Davis-Monthan, and the Tucson community. The A-10 Thunderbolt II, nicknamed the Warthog, has great military significance not just in Tucson but across the Nation. Designed during the Cold War to combat Soviet tanks in Europe, this aircraft is the Air Force's only one built exclusively for close air support, or CAS. The A-10 has served the U.S. military for decades. While it will no longer be in use at Davis-Monthan, this aircraft will continue to be an essential asset of our Nation's military.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING FINAL FLIGHT OF A-10 AT DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the last official A-10 flight at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. On July 29, the 357th Fighter Squadron commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan ``Clutch'' Rutter, and the 355th Operations Group commander, Lieutenant Colonel Rodney Dwyer, will mark the end of a phenomenal 50- year chapter of A-10 operations in Tucson.”
“I know the Dorados will enjoy their victory. They have earned it, and here is to another successful season and many, many more. ____________________”
“After three runner-up finishes in the past five seasons, the Dorados came out on top this year with a score of 4-3 in the championship game, finishing the season 29-6. This victory marks the team's first State title since 2017. It is also Coach Kelly Fowler's third title since starting at CDO. During the game, junior first baseman Emma Shaffer scored a three-run home run at the top of the first inning, putting the Dorados up 3-0 early in the game. The game was tied up 3-3 for a short time, but the tie was broken after Shaffer forced a walk to load the bases and freshman second baseman Brooklyn Benavides moved the score to 4-3. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Kelly Fowler, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. Their hard work has made their school and our community very proud.”
“The Lancers finished the fifth inning with three runs after an RBI single by senior catcher Sarah Camp and RBI double by senior first baseman CC Moraga with two outs which put the Lancers ahead 4-2. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Sztan, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. Their hard work has made their school and our community very proud. I know the Lancers will enjoy their victory. They have earned it, and here is to another successful season and many, many more. Congratulating the Canyon Del Oro High School Softball Team Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Canyon del Oro High School softball team on winning the 2026 5A State championship title.”
“Congratulating Salpointe Catholic High School Softball Team Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Salpointe Catholic High School softball team on winning the 2026 4A State championship title. This victory marks the team's seventh title in the last nine years. Confident in the team's ability to win this year's title, Salpointe Coach Tricia Sztan and her staff ordered shirts with the slogan ``#TakeItBack2026'' written on the back. At the beginning of the fifth inning, senior second baseman Alyssa Montano led with a single and advanced to second with the help of senior pitcher-outfielder Soli Ramos. Then Catherine ``Peaches'' Sztan hit an RBI single to center field that scored Montano and tied up the game at 2.”
“During the championship game, Tanque Verde added their first run on the board in the third inning, before adding six runs in the fourth, one in the fifth, and two more in the sixth. Junior pitcher Claire Achilles was named the Class 3A MVP after pitching six innings, allowing a hit and recording 13 strikeouts. Additionally, sophomores Mikaela Jackson and Ella Haggard each had three hits during the game. The Hawks gave all they had and came out on top. I am so proud of them. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Mark Stevens, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. Their hard work has made their school and our community proud. I know the Hawks will enjoy their victory. They have earned it, and here is to another [[Page H4417]] successful season and many, many more.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4416-H4417] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CONGRATULATING TANQUE VERDE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL TEAM (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Tanque Verde High School softball team on winning the 2026 3A State championship title. The Hawks earned the title by defeating Yuma Catholic by a 10-0 score. This victory marks the team's first-ever championship, an accomplishment that is exciting and worth celebrating.”
“I know the Dorados will enjoy their victory. They have earned it, and here is to another successful season and many, many more. ____________________”
“After three runner-up finishes in the past five seasons, the Dorados came out on top this year with a score of 4-3 in the championship game, finishing the season 29-6. This victory marks the team's first State title since 2017. It is also Coach Kelly Fowler's third title since starting at CDO. During the game, junior first baseman Emma Shaffer scored a three-run home run at the top of the first inning, putting the Dorados up 3-0 early in the game. The game was tied up 3-3 for a short time, but the tie was broken after Shaffer forced a walk to load the bases and freshman second baseman Brooklyn Benavides moved the score to 4-3. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Kelly Fowler, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. Their hard work has made their school and our community very proud.”
“The Lancers finished the fifth inning with three runs after an RBI single by senior catcher Sarah Camp and RBI double by senior first baseman CC Moraga with two outs which put the Lancers ahead 4-2. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Sztan, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. Their hard work has made their school and our community very proud. I know the Lancers will enjoy their victory. They have earned it, and here is to another successful season and many, many more. Congratulating the Canyon Del Oro High School Softball Team Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Canyon del Oro High School softball team on winning the 2026 5A State championship title.”
“Congratulating Salpointe Catholic High School Softball Team Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Salpointe Catholic High School softball team on winning the 2026 4A State championship title. This victory marks the team's seventh title in the last nine years. Confident in the team's ability to win this year's title, Salpointe Coach Tricia Sztan and her staff ordered shirts with the slogan ``#TakeItBack2026'' written on the back. At the beginning of the fifth inning, senior second baseman Alyssa Montano led with a single and advanced to second with the help of senior pitcher-outfielder Soli Ramos. Then Catherine ``Peaches'' Sztan hit an RBI single to center field that scored Montano and tied up the game at 2.”
“During the championship game, Tanque Verde added their first run on the board in the third inning, before adding six runs in the fourth, one in the fifth, and two more in the sixth. Junior pitcher Claire Achilles was named the Class 3A MVP after pitching six innings, allowing a hit and recording 13 strikeouts. Additionally, sophomores Mikaela Jackson and Ella Haggard each had three hits during the game. The Hawks gave all they had and came out on top. I am so proud of them. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Mark Stevens, the whole team, and everyone who made this win possible. Their hard work has made their school and our community proud. I know the Hawks will enjoy their victory. They have earned it, and here is to another [[Page H4417]] successful season and many, many more.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4416-H4417] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CONGRATULATING TANQUE VERDE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL TEAM (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Tanque Verde High School softball team on winning the 2026 3A State championship title. The Hawks earned the title by defeating Yuma Catholic by a 10-0 score. This victory marks the team's first-ever championship, an accomplishment that is exciting and worth celebrating.”
“To all the students, teachers, and parents who had a role in this amazing achievement, I thank them for their dedication. They have proven themselves and made their school and community incredibly proud. They should enjoy this victory. They earned it. ____________________”
“It is deeply honorable and much appreciated. I thank them for their service. Congratulations on a well-deserved promotion. Congratulating Orange Grove Middle School Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Arizona's Sixth Congressional District's own Orange Grove Middle School's eighth grade class for their big victory in the classroom, sweeping the Arizona Council on Economic Education's Economics Challenge. This competition allows students to compete and test their knowledge on economics, monetary policy, international trade, and even the stock market. What an incredibly bright group of young students. I know I definitely wasn't studying monetary policy in eighth grade like they are right now. Since January, 32 students have been hard at work, voluntarily spending their Sundays preparing for this competition.”
“His efforts were critical to strengthening the security at our border while supporting economic vitality in southern Arizona. On behalf of Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Director Humphries for his years of service and wish him the very best during his well-deserved retirement. Celebrating Casa Grande Fire Department Promotions Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and courage of seven outstanding members of the Casa Grande Fire Department and congratulate them on a well-deserved promotion. Congratulations to Captain Matthew Farmer, Chief Tony Fornaro, Battalion Chief Ryan Littrell, and Engineers Iveta Murray, Garrett Walker, Jose Serrano, and Tyler Bogart. [[Page H1733]] Their courage and selflessness keep our community safe.”
“As we wrap up the month, I am proud to celebrate the vital role community colleges play in supporting our students, building communities, expanding opportunities, and strengthening our Nation. {time} 1015 Congratulating Michael Humphries Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Michael Humphries for his distinguished service as Nogales Port of Entry director. After taking over Arizona's busiest border crossing in 2017, Director Humphries instituted policies that kept communities safe from dangerous contraband while ensuring trade and commerce continued to flow smoothly. He uncovered record hauls of deadly fentanyl and other dangerous drugs and made sure that essential products like food and medical equipment made it through the port of entry without interruption, even during the COVID pandemic.”
“Together with colleges across the Nation, these institutions serve over 10 million students, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive and succeed. My time at Pima Community College was deeply impactful and gave me the tools that I needed to pursue my own American Dream, a dream that I am so blessed to live every single day. For decades, community colleges have empowered students of all ages and backgrounds with the knowledge, certification, and hands-on skills they need to thrive and succeed. From nurses to welders, teachers to construction workers, and so much more, community colleges are responsible for training the workforce that drives our economy forward.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1732-H1733] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMEMORATING COMMUNITY COLLEGE MONTH (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor of H. Res. 340, commemorating April as Community College Month to honor and recognize the more than 1,000 public, Tribal, and independent community colleges across the U.S. Specifically, I want to highlight my alma mater, Pima Community College, and others from Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, Cochise College, Eastern Arizona College, and Central Arizona College.”
“To all the students, teachers, and parents who had a role in this amazing achievement, I thank them for their dedication. They have proven themselves and made their school and community incredibly proud. They should enjoy this victory. They earned it. ____________________”
“It is deeply honorable and much appreciated. I thank them for their service. Congratulations on a well-deserved promotion. Congratulating Orange Grove Middle School Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Arizona's Sixth Congressional District's own Orange Grove Middle School's eighth grade class for their big victory in the classroom, sweeping the Arizona Council on Economic Education's Economics Challenge. This competition allows students to compete and test their knowledge on economics, monetary policy, international trade, and even the stock market. What an incredibly bright group of young students. I know I definitely wasn't studying monetary policy in eighth grade like they are right now. Since January, 32 students have been hard at work, voluntarily spending their Sundays preparing for this competition.”
“His efforts were critical to strengthening the security at our border while supporting economic vitality in southern Arizona. On behalf of Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Director Humphries for his years of service and wish him the very best during his well-deserved retirement. Celebrating Casa Grande Fire Department Promotions Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and courage of seven outstanding members of the Casa Grande Fire Department and congratulate them on a well-deserved promotion. Congratulations to Captain Matthew Farmer, Chief Tony Fornaro, Battalion Chief Ryan Littrell, and Engineers Iveta Murray, Garrett Walker, Jose Serrano, and Tyler Bogart. [[Page H1733]] Their courage and selflessness keep our community safe.”
“As we wrap up the month, I am proud to celebrate the vital role community colleges play in supporting our students, building communities, expanding opportunities, and strengthening our Nation. {time} 1015 Congratulating Michael Humphries Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Michael Humphries for his distinguished service as Nogales Port of Entry director. After taking over Arizona's busiest border crossing in 2017, Director Humphries instituted policies that kept communities safe from dangerous contraband while ensuring trade and commerce continued to flow smoothly. He uncovered record hauls of deadly fentanyl and other dangerous drugs and made sure that essential products like food and medical equipment made it through the port of entry without interruption, even during the COVID pandemic.”
“Together with colleges across the Nation, these institutions serve over 10 million students, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive and succeed. My time at Pima Community College was deeply impactful and gave me the tools that I needed to pursue my own American Dream, a dream that I am so blessed to live every single day. For decades, community colleges have empowered students of all ages and backgrounds with the knowledge, certification, and hands-on skills they need to thrive and succeed. From nurses to welders, teachers to construction workers, and so much more, community colleges are responsible for training the workforce that drives our economy forward.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1732-H1733] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMEMORATING COMMUNITY COLLEGE MONTH (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor of H. Res. 340, commemorating April as Community College Month to honor and recognize the more than 1,000 public, Tribal, and independent community colleges across the U.S. Specifically, I want to highlight my alma mater, Pima Community College, and others from Arizona's Sixth Congressional District, Cochise College, Eastern Arizona College, and Central Arizona College.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to honor these two young athletes for their accomplishments at such a young age. I know we all look forward to rooting for them and seeing all the amazing things that they will accomplish in their baseball and academic careers. Recognizing Andrada Polytechnic High School Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Andrada Polytechnic High School for receiving an A-plus School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation, the highest State-level recognition given to a public school. Go Mavericks. ____________________”
“Speaker, I rise today to honor and highlight Clayton Ratliff and Carlo Rivero, two young athletes from Arizona who were selected to play on the 12U USA Baseball team. This is a monumental achievement that reflects their dedication and perseverance to the sport. Tryouts start with 25,000 hopeful participants with three rounds of eliminations, ultimately creating a final roster of only 18 players. Clayton is a proud resident of Casa Grande and an aspiring baseball player who is well respected by everyone in his community. He is a pitcher and outfielder. Carlo lives in Tucson and comes from a proud baseball family. His dad played college baseball, and his grandfather played professionally in the MLB. He plays as a pitcher and an infielder.”
“Shot down over France in 1944, Edward's bravery saved countless lives, even as he endured frostbite, captivity, and some of the hardest conditions of the war. While he faced unimaginable [[Page H1471]] challenges and harsh conditions, he continued to fight for his fellow countrymen and never lost his commitment to justice and freedom. After the war, he built a joyful life, carrying with him a quiet strength from his time in service. Edward's lifetime of service and his courage, grace, and patriotism will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We will never forget the sacrifices that he and countless soldiers made for our freedoms. I thank Edward for his service, and may he rest in peace. Recognizing Carlo Rivero and Clayton Ratliff Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1470-H1471] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING EDWARD JAMES McGRAW (Mr. Ciscomani of Arizona was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of United States Air Corps sergeant and World War II veteran, Edward James McGraw. A tail gunner, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, prisoner of war survivor, beloved member of the Greatest Generation, and Green Valley resident, Edward McGraw represented the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, and resilience.”
“Placing the OSA directly under the Secretary will help to recognize the importance of this population. Mr. Speaker, I was proud to work alongside Chairman Bost on this to ensure survivors have a seat at the table. [[Page H1435]] I urge my colleagues to support and pass this commonsense legislation again in the 119th Congress as it did without objection last Congress.”
“When the VA placed OSA within the Veterans Benefits Administration, they deprioritized survivors' policies and skirted Congress' intent when it created this office. My bill would fix this by requiring OSA to operate within the Secretary's office, thereby prioritizing advocacy and services for servicemembers' and veterans' surviving spouses and families, as well. I will highlight the comment of a member of my Veterans Advisory Council, Ms. Jane Strain, a surviving spouse and an Army veteran herself. She said: Surviving spouses and families who cared for children, moved many times during a military career, compromised their own careers, and maintained their homelife while the servicemember was deployed have earned and deserve attention when the spouse has passed.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Bost for yielding me time today to speak in support of my bill, H.R. 1228, the Prioritizing Veterans' Survivors Act. Since being elected, I have heard from military servicemembers and surviving family members about their struggles accessing VA benefits. In my district, I started a Veterans Advisory Council, and we often discuss this very topic to find ways to better this situation. I am always looking to ensure that Department of Veterans Affairs leaders hear the concerns of veterans' loved ones. From its creation, the Office of Survivors Assistance, OSA, was meant to serve as the principal adviser to the VA Secretary on all survivors' benefits and services, as well, including medical care and burial benefits.”