For Immediate Release
January 29, 2008
Contact:  Lisa Landis
Legislative Director
717-787-6709
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Senator Brubaker Speaks at State Veterans Conference

Reports to Pennsylvania VFW members on legislative issues

LANCASTER – State Senator Mike Brubaker (R-36) recently spoke to more than 500 veterans about legislative issues at the 44th annual mid-winter conference of the VFW Department of Pennsylvania. 

The conference was held at the Lancaster Host Resort & Conference Center from Thursday, Jan. 24, through Sunday, Jan. 27. Senator Brubaker delivered his remarks on Friday evening. 

"I have great respect for the men and women proudly serving this Commonwealth and this country in the Armed Forces," Brubaker said. "To have the opportunity to speak at the conference to those who have made such sacrifices on our behalf was an honor and a privilege." 

In his remarks, Brubaker indicated the wide variety of federal, state, local and private benefits available to veterans and their families. In addition to outlining some of those benefits and discussing where veterans can find more information and assistance, he noted that the General Assembly has been working to expand the programs available to veterans and to ensure they are being administered efficiently. 

"Last month, for instance, we finalized the Veterans Service Officer Grant Program," Brubaker said. "This new law will improve and better coordinate veterans outreach assistance and support programs in Pennsylvania." Since its adoption, the state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has approved an initial group of grant awards to Veterans Administration accredited organizations, including a $144,000 grant to the VFW Department of Pennsylvania. 

Brubaker also talked about several other pieces of legislation currently before the General Assembly that would support veterans working to reestablish their lives after returning from active duty.  

"I believe it is of the utmost importance that the state government work with veterans and create programs that give them the support they need to regain physical and mental health, reconnect with themselves and their communities, and resume productive lives as civilians," Brubaker said. 

Brubaker pledged to continue working with his colleagues in the state Senate to address the issues facing active duty military members as well as veterans. 

"You have earned our nation's, and my own, deepest respect and admiration, and I thank each and every veteran for standing up for the principles that make the United States what it is today," Brubaker said.