Senior Chief Shane Junkert, USN (Ret) 54KVeterans statement on recent VA Change:
The VA's new medication rule is a gut punch to every veteran currently receiving disability.
For the first time, many are realizing how easily "guaranteed" benefits can be re-evaluated.
This fear you’re feeling this risk of a sudden pay cut is our daily reality.
Over 54,000 combat-injured veterans already have their earned retirement pay stripped away every month.
While the VA targets your ratings, the "Wounded Warrior Tax" is already draining ours.
We aren't fighting separate battles; we are fighting the same system of benefit erosion.
They hope we stay divided by our specific injuries or our years of service.
But a cut to one veteran's pocket is a threat to every veteran's future.
If they can redefine your health, they can justify stealing our earned service pensions.
We stood together in uniform; we must stand together against these systemic budget cuts.
Support the Major Richard Star Act to end the offset for our combat-wounded brothers.
By fixing the "Wounded Warrior Tax" now, we set the standard for protecting all.
I understand the stress of losing what you earned. Many have been living it for years.
Let’s turn this collective anger into the political pressure needed to finally pass this.
One fight for our ratings. One fight for our pensions. One voice for our dignity.
Stop the "Treatment Tax." End the "Wounded Warrior Tax." No veteran left behind.
Best Regards,
Senior Chief Shane Junkert, USN (Ret)