For those who served

To the editor: As chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, I have been devoting a great deal of time to legislation to help our veterans and active military personnel. We have an obligation to all veterans to honor their service and contributions both in peace and war. In my new role, I want to make sure we are doing all we can to meet the needs of the men and women who have given so much to our Country. That’s why I authored and introduced Senate Bill 915n which recently passed the Senate unanimously n to improve veterans’ outreach and assistance throughout Pennsylvania. This initiative will provide financial assistance to accredited veteran service organizations such as the American Legion, AMVETS, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, and the Disabled American Veterans. Of all the matters that come before the General Assembly, few are as important as meeting the needs of those who risked their lives for their nation and returned home, or preserving the memory of those who gave their lives and did not. It is an honor to serve as chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee and I will continue to advance legislation and programs to better serve our veterans. As we observe Veteran’s Day, I would like to thank those who are keeping the memories of service and sacrifice alive. We are grateful to gather as a free people in a free nation and to freely offer our respect to those who have demonstrated the most extraordinary form of duty and devotion. State Senator Lisa Baker