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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Contact: Michael Houston, IAVA (212) 982-9699 or michael[at]iava.org

IAVA Responds to President’s Comments on Improving Veterans’ Care
Veterans Commend White House for Addressing the Dole-Shalala Recommendations

NEW YORK – Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the nation's first and largest nonpartisan organization for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, commends President Bush and the Dole-Shalala commission for taking action to improve care for veterans.  IAVA Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff issued the following statement:

“We are pleased that President Bush is now taking action to improve care for veterans.  Iraq and Afghanistan veterans across the country know that healthcare for the wounded must be a top priority for our nation’s leaders.  Since the Dole-Shalala commission released its recommendations more than two and a half months ago, IAVA and its membership have worked tirelessly to ensure that their recommendations did not sit on the shelf gathering dust.  The continuing problems at Walter Reed have been the focus of our national TV ad campaign and our congressional efforts.  Now, we urge Congress to work together in a bipartisan manner to ensure that our veterans’ needs are finally met.  Our nation’s wounded heroes cannot afford to wait any longer for adequate health care.”

“However, two urgent issues remain unaddressed.  As of October 1, the VA budget was late and a permanent replacement for VA Secretary Nicholson has yet to be named.  Secretary Nicholson announced his plans to resign in July.  We call upon the lawmakers and the White House to address these pressing matters, as well,” said Rieckhoff.

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is the nation’s first and largest group for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  A nonprofit and nonpartisan organization, IAVA represents more than 60,000 veteran members and civilian supporters in all 50 states. To arrange an interview with Paul Rieckhoff or any other IAVA member veterans, please contact Michael Houston at (212) 982-9699, or email michael[at]iava.org.  For more information, please visit www.iava.org.

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