As a proud Marine Corps Veteran, like so many others, I gave years of my life, not to mention both physical and mental pain, to serve this great nation. The brotherhood and camaraderie that come with serving in the military is unparalleled, and it pains me deeply to see my fellow Veterans struggle due to systemic issues within the Department of Veterans Affairs. We, as a nation, owe an immeasurable debt to the men and women who have bravely served in uniform, and yet, many of our Veterans face unnecessary barriers in accessing the care and benefits they deserve.

Recently, it has become abundantly clear that the current VA Secretary, Doug Collins, has not only failed in his duties but has also lost the confidence of the very people he is supposed to serve. Under his leadership, the VA has faced numerous scandals, ranging from delayed benefits and healthcare fraud to inadequate mental health services. A stark reminder of the challenges was highlighted in the latest report from the Office of Inspector General, which cited ongoing mismanagement and neglect of Veterans’ needs.

These persistent issues are not just bureaucratic oversights; they represent real consequences for the millions of Veterans who rely on the VA for their well-being. For instance, a study by the National Veterans Foundation revealed that Veteran suicide rates remain alarmingly high, largely due to the insufficient mental health resources. It's not just statistics; these are our brothers and sisters who are suffering, and immediate action is required.

While the task of serving Veterans is undeniably challenging, leadership requires both accountability and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Unfortunately, Secretary Collins has not demonstrated either. It is vital for the Department of Veterans Affairs to have a leader who possesses not only the capability but also the empathy and commitment to drive necessary reforms.

I am calling on President and Congress to enact a change in leadership by removing Doug Collins from his position and appointing someone who can restore confidence and bring about substantive changes. Our Veterans deserve nothing less than the very best care and support. This petition serves as a call to action for all those who believe in justice and dignity for those who have served.

Please join me in this critical effort by signing this petition, and let us ensure that the voices of our Veterans are finally heard and respected.