This past week, on Tuesday, March 10, I was part of the American Legion team that briefed our congressional delegation (Rep Pingree was not available so we briefed her staff) on veteran issues of concern. Since we only had about 30 minutes with each of our delegation, we concentrated on the top priorities: suicide prevention, homelessness, National Security, Mission Act implementation, hazardous material exposure, healthcare for women, and funding the Coast Guard when the government shuts down.

The issue of suicide prevention and homelessness concentrated on the lack of resources in Maine for residential mental health care. All four of our delegation have signed a letter urging the Secretary of the VA to fund the proposal that was submitted by the Director of VA/Togus for a substance abuse treatment residential facility in Maine. All are on board to keep the pressure on the VA to make that happen.

I also took the opportunity to brief Senators Collins, King and Representative Golden on Post 36’s VETS trailer. I expressed concern about the implantation of the Mission Act, the fact that we are once again contracting out the management of the community care services, and the delay in getting providers under VA contract, such as our own Urgent Care facility and Mid-Coast Medical (both still available for true emergencies however). The hazardous material discussion ranged from the addition of four more presumptive for Agent Orange, burn pits, to firefighting foam. Most of the discussion on women healthcare centered on the fact that the relatively new women’s healthcare clinic at Togus already needs to be expanded. In most cases, the delegation was aware of the situations but appreciated our input. Senator Collins and Senator King committed to figure out how to pay the Coast Guard during a shut down, complicated by the fact that the CG is part of Homeland Security and not DOD. The next day, I attended the American Legion National Commander briefing to the joint session of the Congressional Veteran Affairs Committee. I am always impressed by the understanding of the issues by the members of committee, many of whom are veterans and of those, most are members of the American Legion.

The 5 April breakfast is being cancelled in support of the local guidance for avoiding group gatherings. We will reassess the start of our breakfasts in early April.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, both Vietnam Recognition events at the Augusta Armory have been cancelled. In addition, the Fishers House ribbon cutting ceremony at Togus will be rescheduled.

Over 75 veterans have signed up for the Veteran Lobster Boat ride. If you haven’t signed up and want to participate, make reservations by contacting Stephanie Hawke (380-6803), Phil Chapman (380-7020), or call the Hall (633-4487). If you want to volunteer, contact Stephanie or Phil and let them know.

Monday, April 13 is our next meeting; dinner at 5:30 p.m., meeting at 6.