As family and friends gather to celebrate the Fourth of July, I am reminded of the profound significance of the holiday. Independence Day is more than just a holiday; it is a time to reflect on the greatness of America, the freedoms we cherish, and the sacrifices made to secure them. As a Marine, the father of a Marine, the grandfather of a Marine, and the Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee in Congress, the Fourth of July isn’t just about burgers and hot dogs to me. There’s a deeper meaning.
My journey to representing Illinois’ 12th District in Congress has been deeply influenced by the values instilled in me during my military service. The sense of duty, honor, and commitment to our country that I learned as a Marine continues to guide my work today. As Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I am dedicated to ensuring that our nation fulfills its promises to those who have served.
One of the core tenets of my work on the committee is accountability. Our veterans deserve nothing less than the highest standards of care and service from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This is why I have been fighting every day to hold the VA accountable to veterans and taxpayers alike. I have championed legislation to remove bad VA employees who undermine the delivery of care and services. By holding the VA accountable, we uphold our commitment to veterans and their families.
Recently, I led an in-depth investigation into the VA’s Human Resources Office following disturbing whistleblower reports of sexual harassment. Every veteran and VA employee deserves to feel safe in VA facilities, and we are working tirelessly to ensure that is the case. Additionally, I have taken a strong stand against antisemitism at the VA, holding the Department accountable in its investigation of a VA attorney who publicly made blatant antisemitic statements. Our veterans must feel safe and welcome in every VA facility, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Recognizing the unique needs of women veterans, I led a six month task force to hear their concerns and develop policy proposals to ensure the VA can provide them with the care and benefits they have earned. Women veterans have served our nation with distinction, and it is our duty to ensure they — and all veterans — receive the support and recognition they deserve. That’s why I’m leading H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. This vitally important bill would push VA forward for the current and next generation of veterans by expanding economic and education opportunities, giving veterans more say in their healthcare, and modernizing the delivery of care and benefits at VA. We must send it to the president’s desk soon.
The Fourth of July is a celebration of our nation’s independence, but it is also a reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect and expand the freedoms we hold dear. As we enjoy the fireworks and festivities, let us also remember the sacrifices made by our service members and veterans. Their dedication and bravery have made our freedoms possible, and it is our sacred obligation to honor their service by ensuring they receive the care and respect they have earned.
This Independence Day, I am filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving those who have served our nation. As we celebrate the birth of our nation, let us recommit ourselves to upholding the values of liberty and justice for all.
God bless our veterans, and God bless the United States of America.
Rep. Mike Bost is proud to represent Illinois’ 12th Congressional District. In the 118th Congress, Rep. Bost serves on three key committees: Veterans’ Affairs, Transportation & Infrastructure, and Agriculture. On the Veterans’ Affairs Committee he serves as the Chairman.
Rep. Bost also served as a firefighter for the Murphysboro Fire Department. He graduated from the University of Illinois’ Certified Firefighter II Academy in 1993 and continued to serve the Murphysboro Fire Department during six of his ten terms as state representative. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps serving his country from 1979 to 1982. He was trained as an electronic specialist and radar repairman and received an honorable discharge as a Corporal E-4.