By NFRW Armed Services Committee Chair Cecilia Tyler

Everything we have seen and heard shows that President Trump supports our military services and our veterans.

President Trump directed his staff to “fix” the Veterans Administration. Services have improved in most areas though there is still a shortage of health care providers. His staff continues to work to streamline the agency so that it works FOR our veterans.

President Trump has signed legislation for a number of veterans programs such as the Mission Act (improving access to outside care), Veterans Benefits and Transition Act (improving education and other aspects of the transition from military to civilian life), Forever GI Bill Housing Payment Fulfillment Act (fixing late payments), Veterans Treatment Court Act (options for troubled veterans in the legal system), and Ryan Kules and Paul Benne Specially Adaptive Housing Act (expands a home renovations grant program for disabled and blind veterans).

President Trump and First Lady Melania have made numerous visits to Walter Reed to visit with our wounded. They have also hosted them at functions in the White House. Each time, President Trump shows his respect and love for our service members as well as compassion for them and their families. At the 2019 Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride, President Trump and Vice President Pence met with a large number of wounded warriors. President Trump made the following remarks that testify to the pride he feels for our service members: “Each of you is a living testament to the outstanding determination, persistence, and patriotism that made this the greatest nation ever to exist on the face of the Earth … Today America proudly salutes you and all of your fellow warriors. You are incredible warriors … We are in awe of your courage, and we are forever grateful for your noble sacrifice.”

Lieutenant General Linnington (retired) followed with: “Mr. President, thank you for honoring and empowering our nation’s finest and for the work you have done and will continue to do on behalf of our military and veteran community.”

Much has been said about a few disgruntled generals and political appointees that do not support President Trump. They do not speak for us, and we believe the majority of the rank and file support President Trump. Recently 235 retired 4, 3, and 2 Star Army and Air Force Generals and Navy admirals signed a letter supporting President Trump. They didn’t take this lightly as it is not in our nature as military leaders to sign petitions or “open Letters.” But they felt compelled to speak out. This election is too important, and President Trump IS supporting our military, veterans, and retirees.

As a veteran with almost 27 years of active service, I and my family are proud to say we support our President and Commander in Chief. My immediate family reflects 142 years of military service – WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and wars in the Middle East. We support our Nation and President Trump!

COL (Ret) Cecilia Tyler
US Army NFRW Armed Services
Chair, NFRW Armed Services Committee
Chair, Valley County Republican Women, Idaho