This week, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and more than 60 military and veteran organizations faced a setback on one of our top priorities — S.1032, Major Richard Star Act.
During floor consideration, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, requested unanimous consent to pass the bill, which would end the unfair offset that denies more than 50,000 combat-injured retirees their full, earned military retirement pay and VA disability compensation.
Unfortunately, Senator Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, objected, preventing passage. He argued that the bill would create a “double benefit” the country “cannot afford.”
As the VFW’s National Legislative Director — and a veteran myself — I must say clearly: That is not a double benefit. They are two different promises our nation made and must keep.
- Retirement pay is earned through years of service.
- Disability compensation is earned through injury or illness caused by that service.
Congress already corrected this injustice in 2004 for most 20-year retirees with 50% or higher disability ratings. The Major Richard Star Act simply extends that same fairness to those medically retired because of combat injuries.
Mississippi constituents must demand that their senator stand up for veterans. Please take a moment to make your voice heard.
Send a message urging Senator Wicker to support and advance S.1032, Major Richard Star Act. You can also follow up with a call to his Washington, D.C. office at 202-224-6253.
Combat-injured veterans have waited long enough. Together, we can #EndTheOffset and #HonorTheContract.
Yours in advocacy,
Kristina Keenan
National Legislative Director
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
