New York State Council

House Committee on Veterans Affairs Mark Takano, Chairman - For Immediate Release

Contact:
Jenni Geurink (202-819-4684)
Miguel R. Salazar

RIVERSIDE, CA – This week, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mark Takano (D-Calif.) spoke with John Rowan, the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) National President, to discuss how their members are adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing practices-- especially in light of Vietnam veterans being at increased risk of contracting the novel coronavirus as a result of many veterans having pre-existing conditions. See the full conversation with the Vietnam Veterans of America here. 

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In the midst of this pandemic, one the likes of which we have never before seen, we, as veterans, are transported back to memories of our service during the Vietnam War, the last time America witnessed this shocking loss of life. Although the environment and circumstances of our war are not precisely the same as yours, we see a direct correlation to the experiences, conditions, and fallout that we endured from our time in the “trenches.” We know from our wartime experiences the feelings of social isolation; little contact with family; the endless, incoming casualties; the stressful anxiety of making triage decisions; and the frustration of lacking critical medical equipment and personal safety items.

We remember the sadness of our hearts in not having the time to do all we wanted to do for the patients in our care. We see on your faces and hear in your voices the profound weight and sense of grief that you carry. We know that, along with these feelings, you have the

Our country is in the midst of an unprecedented global COVID-19 pandemic with unpredictable challenges ahead. The Vietnam Veterans of America maintains our commitment to supporting our community and providing timely resources for our members, supporters, and veterans of all generations. 
 
Today we are urging you and your families to stay informed by visiting the CDC and VA websites. Please abide by all recommended precautionary measures to reduce the spread of the virus:
 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Website Link
 
U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs Website Link
 
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