Right now, the Trump administration is gutting the VA - privatizing services, cutting staff, and closing facilities while our veterans struggle with higher rates of suicide and untreated mental health issues.

When our service members come home, too many face an uphill battle. They're dealing with PTSD, physical injuries, and the challenge of translating military skills into civilian careers - often without the support system they need. 

Meanwhile, we keep sending young Americans to fight endless foreign wars that don't make us safer. Our Tennessee Volunteers are not expendable.

We shouldn't put our soldiers in harm's way without a clear mission and exit strategy, and we owe them comprehensive support when they return.

Here's what real support for veterans looks like:

• Expand the VA, don't privatize it. Our veterans deserve specialized care from providers who understand military service and combat trauma.

• Guarantee every veteran access to good-paying federal employment with hiring preferences that actually work and career advancement opportunities.

• Fully fund mental health support and suicide prevention programs.

• Ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage including dental, vision, and mental health services.

• End America's endless foreign wars and stop sending our young people to fight conflicts without clear objectives.

Our veterans kept their promise to serve our country. It's time we kept our promise to serve them.