Central Louisiana News

On Saturday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy honored veterans and their families in Denham Springs during a Veterans Appreciation Day event. He expressed gratitude to those present for their service and pledged to support them in obtaining necessary health care and assistance.

"Denham Springs and Livingston Parish honored Gold Star families, Blue Star families, and our veterans," said Dr. Cassidy. "It was a moving ceremony. My commitment to these families and these veterans is to make sure that our VA works for them as they have worked for us."

Cassidy has been active in expanding health care options for veterans, aiming to ensure the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) provides timely and effective care. In 2022, he passed the Solid Start Act into law, mandating that the VA contacts every veteran three times by phone within the first year after leaving active duty to connect them with VA programs and benefits. He also supported the PACT Act, which extends benefits to post-9/11 and other veterans exposed to toxins during their service.

Additionally, Cassidy introduced legislation aimed at creating a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Policy Advisory Commission (VetPAC), designed to ensure effective health care delivery by the VHA.

The event saw attendance from veterans across Livingston Parish, along with members of organizations such as the American Legion, Blue Star Mothers of Louisiana, and Louisiana Women Veterans. Mr. Stan McCurdy, a Gold Star Father who organized the event, welcomed Cassidy.

"I appreciate Senator Cassidy taking the time to meet with the veterans who came to our event and listen to their concerns," said Mr. McCurdy. "His respect and support for veterans and our community means a lot."