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In this update:
Important Notice: My offices will be closed for in-person services on Friday, June 19. Virtual services will continue to be accessible via my website. A Memorial Day of Remembrance and Reflection
Over the Memorial Day observance, my staff and I had the honor of joining our community at several events dedicated to remembering and honoring those who gave their lives in service to our nation. At Mt. Olivet Cemetery, volunteers placed flags at more than 500 veterans’ gravesites during the annual salute, a powerful tribute to their service and sacrifice. We also joined the P.W. Milano Detachment of the Marine Corps League for their annual ceremony along the Susquehanna River, featuring a wreath float, rifle salute and Taps in solemn remembrance of the fallen. In addition, I attended the dedication of the Four Chaplains and Charles W. David Jr. Memorial at the Veterans Memorial Gold Star Healing and Peace Garden, honoring his courage and ensuring his story is preserved alongside the legacy of the Four Chaplains. Each of these observances served as a powerful reminder of the cost of our freedoms and the importance of remembering those who gave all. Supporting Recovery and Veteran Services in Lemoyne
I appreciated the opportunity to be part of the open house and dedication for Beating the Odds, a new recovery and veterans services center in Lemoyne. The center provides important resources for individuals who may be struggling, including support groups, activities, a free clothing closet and a safe, welcoming environment for those in need. It was encouraging to see the center’s commitment to strengthening the community and helping individuals on their path to recovery, stability and hope. Display of the Constitutional Preambles in Schools
In May, the Senate passed legislation requiring the posting of the preambles of the U.S. Constitution and the Pennsylvania Constitution in the entranceway of public school buildings. Read more about Senate Bill 250 and Senate Bill 598. Nearly $600 Million in Infrastructure Improvements Approved by VA
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) approved $596 million in VA infrastructure improvements in the second quarter of fiscal year 2026. The funds will be used by VA medical facilities to improve operational capability and overall healthcare delivery by making significant upgrades. This includes funds for 24 projects for Pennsylvania’s VA medical facilities to renovate a prosthetics lab in Altoona, replace a roof in Butler, replace windows in Lebanon, repair a heat exchanger in Philadelphia, structural reinforcements in Pittsburgh and more. Easier Access to CDL Training for Veterans
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs implemented part of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (Dole Act) to improve how certain Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training programs are approved for VA education benefits. Previously, new CDL training locations were required to meet the full approval requirements of a new CDL training program, which included a two-year minimum operating period, and have its site approved by the appropriate state approving agency before being able to enroll G.I. Bill students. Now, new CDL training locations can be exempt from this two-year operating period requirement if they:
Currently, these changes apply only to CDL programs, but the VA will be studying the impact to determine whether this could be applied to other vocational programs in the future. PA Hero Walk
The PA Hero Walk, a 320-mile segmented fundraising walk across Pennsylvania to raise money to help veterans with basic necessities including utility bills, housing and more, will take place from June 7 through June 20. The walk will include a stop at White Rose VFW Post 566 in York, located in our Senatorial District, providing an opportunity for residents to come out and show support for those taking part in this meaningful mission. Baseball Season Deals
Many Major League Baseball teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Pittsburgh Pirates, offer discounted tickets to veterans. Minor league teams also provide similar benefits. For example, the Harrisburg Senators offer buy-one, get-one-free tickets for veterans at Tuesday home games throughout the season. The York Revolution offers free tickets for all active-duty service members and veterans to its Salute to Service game on Aug. 19. Vet Tix, the largest veteran-focused nonprofit in the United States, provides tickets to baseball games and other events that encourage service members and veterans to stay engaged with local communities and American life. The Reading Fightin Phils take nominations of veterans who have served or currently serve our country to have a ceremonial flag flown in their honor on a gameday. The veteran is recognized before the game, and they and their immediate family receive complimentary tickets. In baseball, veterans remain part of the lineup in more ways than one, staying connected to the game and the communities it brings together. |
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