President Joe Biden Pledge to expand the welfare of the military on the first Veterans Day in the United States in more than two decades without war.
In a speech at Arlington National Cemetery on Thursday, Biden expressed his gratitude to American veterans, calling them the backbone of the country.
“Our veterans represent the best people in America,” the president said. “You are the backbone of America, not just the backbone… All of us owe you.”
Biden said he will work with Congress Ensure that veterans receive “the world-class benefits they receive.”
He said his government will expand the assumed conditions for toxic exposure and particulate matter, including Agent Orange and burn pits, and improve the care of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities.
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According to a fact sheet issued by the White House on Thursday, veterans suffering from asthma, rhinitis and sinusitis after serving in Southwest Asia and other places are now eligible to apply for disability benefits and receive VA health care.
The VA will also examine possible links between exposure to the military environment and constrictive bronchiolitis, lung cancer, and rare respiratory cancers.
The Biden administration also aims to raise awareness of the welfare of veterans related to military contacts and expand training for veterans and non-veteran providers to better treat veterans who are concerned about exposure to toxic substances.
In addition, the government will extend the eligibility period for VA healthcare. Currently, VA allows veterans to receive up to five years of free VA medical care after being discharged from hospital or released for serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Biden also said on Thursday that his government will prioritize mental health care to treat “invisible wounds” and reduce the suicide rate among soldiers and veterans.
“I want to make it clear to all of our veterans: if you are struggling-you are used to never asking for anything. If you are struggling, reach out,” he said, and advised those in need to call the Veterans Crisis String.
“For two decades, the lives of our soldiers, their families, and veterans have been affected by the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Biden, who withdrew US troops from Afghanistan in August. That conflict was the longest war in the United States and lasted for 20 years.
He acknowledged the sacrifices of service members and their families during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and promised that his government will “fulfil the sacred obligations we owe you.”
The President said: “The American people are forever grateful and in awe of your achievements.”
