Amata Speaks to VFW Members
Pago Pago, AS, Tuesday, March 29, 2016, Congresswoman Aumua Amata was special guest speaker at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) meeting here today. “I know VFW members have many questions regarding what my office is doing on their behalf. Let me first acknowledge the fact that everything we do here and in Washington, DC, has an impact or potential impact on all Veterans. That being said, let me give you a quick rundown on our activities during the first 14 months of my term in office”, said Amata.
Amata was introduced as a special guest speaker at the VFW opening.
Amata went on to explain the many actions she has initiated or participated in, including bills that have passed both the House and Senate and been signed into law by the President. She also pointed out that she sits on three important House Committees, all of which can have the potential to help with or bring to the attention of Congress, the many concerns of our veterans. She recently chaired the House Veterans Affairs, Economic Opportunity Subcommittee hearing.
“At the forefront of my concerns for the veterans is the need to greatly improve healthcare delivery, here in American Samoa as well as throughout the United States. In a recent meeting with top officials of the VA, I was able to start discussions regarding the VA taking an active role in making substantive improvements at LBJ Medical Center, including a possible new wing dedicated to the care of veterans,” continued Amata.
Many concerns were voiced by veterans at the meeting, including a bill to limit the years for Army Reserve, a study for the registration of veterans, veterans forms show a specific designation for Samoan and not be just specified as Pacific Islanders, a need for specialist doctors at LBJ, per diem for veteran travel, a new wing at LBJ, minimum wage, small business opportunities, vocational rehabilitation (especially for prosthetics patients), cost of medication at LBJ being too high, improvements in merchandise being offered at the PX and many concerns.
It was suggested that veterans subscribe to the VFW Magazine to get updates on most of the issues asked today. It was further suggested that veterans contact Igafo Malia with questions regarding benefits.
“I want to encourage you to visit my website, amata.house.gov, where you will find much more on the actions I have taken on behalf of our veterans. Sign up for our newsletters. We will soon be publishing a newsletter dedicated to all the actions, current and passed, on behalf of the veterans. I think you will be impressed. And, keep in mind that we have only just begun,” stated Amata.
In closing Amata assured all veterans that her office is always open to assist them and that they are encouraged to bring their concerns to her attention. “I come from a long line of veterans and many of my family members are veterans, so your concerns are my concerns,” concluded Amata.
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