VFW Action Corps Weekly
Senate Blocks Competing TCAVA Unanimous Consent Motions: Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jerry Moran and Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal attempted to pass competing versions of the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act (TCAVA) by unanimous consent, but both efforts were blocked. Sen. Moran, R-Kan., sought to advance the legislation as written using projected savings from reductions to future VA disability ratings for tinnitus and sleep apnea and its version of the Major Richard Star Act. Sen. Blumenthal, D-Conn., proposed an amended version using unobligated Department of Defense funds and fully repealing the wounded veterans tax through his version of the Major Richard Star Act. The VFW supports expanding benefits for veterans, families, caregivers and survivors, but strongly opposes forcing future generations of veterans to pay for them through reduced disability compensation. Congress must remove the harmful pay-for and find a responsible path forward. The VFW urges our grassroots advocates to take action and tell Congress to oppose any version of TCAVA that cuts veterans’ earned benefits.
Podcast Features New National Commander, Advocacy Update and Actor from The Pacific: The latest episode of Still Serving takes listeners inside the 127th VFW National Convention and looks ahead to the organization's next chapter. Hosts Rob Couture and Brittany Dymond Murray recap the convention before welcoming newly elected VFW Commander-in-Chief Cory Geisler, who shares his priorities for strengthening veteran wellness, expanding community engagement, protecting earned VA benefits and advocating for service members nationwide. The episode also examines the latest developments surrounding the Take Care of America's Veterans Act (TCAVA), recent legal victories against predatory claims companies and the power of grassroots advocacy in shaping veterans policy. Rounding out the show, actor Joshua Bitton reflects on portraying Marine Sgt. J.P. Morgan in The Pacific and the lasting impact the experience has had on his connection with veterans. Listen to episode 70, "There’s A New Chief in Town,” on your favorite podcast platform or watch it on YouTube.
VFW Presents Accredited Service Representative of the Year Award: Colin Anderson was recipient of the 2025-2026 John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Service Representative of the Year award presented at the VFW 127th National Convention in Reno, Nevada. This annual recognition highlights the outstanding work performed by VFW accredited representatives across the country and the difference they make in the lives of those they serve every day. Anderson, an Army veteran, is state veterans service director for VFW Department of New York. His commitment to veteran advocacy and professionalism reflects the high standards of the VFW National Veterans Service program. Read more.
Claims Clinic, Health Fair Deliver Results at VFW National Convention: The VFW's annual VA Claims Clinic and Health Fair delivered immediate results for veterans and their families during the 127th VFW National Convention in Reno, Nevada. Preliminary figures show the Claims Clinic assisted 142 veterans, filed 172 VA claims and completed more than 100 compensation and pension examinations, with final totals still pending. One veteran received a 100% Permanent and Total disability rating on the first day, resulting in more than $28,000 in retroactive benefits. The Health Fair featured strong support from the Department of Veterans Affairs, including a VA Medical Center Mobile Medical Unit that provided on-site health screenings. Hundreds of attendees also connected with VA programs through the Reno Vet Center, suicide prevention, telehealth, caregiver support and other health care resources. Read more. White House Announces Creation of Military Spouse Commission: President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing the President’s Military Spouse Commission to advise and assist on policies that affect military spouses and families. Jennifer Hegseth has been named chairwoman to lead the commission comprised of spouses of senior military leaders from each of the service branches. Military spouses and families face challenges related to frequent relocations such as housing, employment, education, health care and childcare. The mission is to engage directly with military spouses to identify barriers and make annual recommendations to the president to improve the quality of life and overall well-being of military families and thereby strengthen military readiness and maintain a more resilient fighting force. Read more.