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Their view: Doing right by women veterans in Virginia

Bristol Herald Courier - 2/17/2018

Women are the fastest-growing segment of America's veteran population. With about 2.2 million female vets in the U.S., women make up about 10 percent of that population. That number is expected to double in the next 10 years.

Women transitioning back to civilian life often face new battles when they return to the home front. The Department of Veterans Affairs was created to assist Johnny when he came marching home - unfortunately for Jane, there is too often a dearth of available services for her. (Although in fairness, the VA is struggling mightily to catch up.)

Access to adequate health care, readjustment benefits, and employment assistance can be challenging for women. Compound those issues with a civilian population that often has a skewed idea of female vets, and readjustment can be a difficult, drawn-out process for some women.

We are fortunate that these issues are far less prevalent in Virginia than most other states. When it comes to transition assistance for all service members, the commonwealth's Department of Veterans Services is one of the best in the nation. Its programs geared toward female vets are noteworthy.

With more than 111,000, Virginia ranks fourth nationally in female veteran. That's good for the commonwealth. Women vets have much to offer: They're smart, they're savvy, they're leaders and they're not afraid of challenges.

We are delighted to learn of a bill sponsored by state Sen. Jennifer T. Wexton and Del. Kathleen J. Murphy, House Joint Resolution 76, that designates the third full week of March as Women Veterans Week in Virginia. The bill is expected to pass unanimously in both the House and the Senate.

As women warriors trade in their combat gear for career wear, they have the choice to move anywhere in the nation. It's important that the commonwealth set aside a week to raise awareness throughout the state as to the valuable contributions these women have made and will continue to make throughout their lives.