It’s been a rough couple of weeks.

With the sensationalized coverage of the tragic shooting at Fort Hood and the reprehensible op-ed published in The New York Times linking vets to hate groups, IAVA has been working overtime to ensure our community – the brave men and women who have sacrificed overseas and are now leading at home – is protected from attacks.

But then, CNN reported that at least 40 veterans died while waiting for an appointment at the Phoenix VA. And to add insult to injury, it’s alleged that many of those vets were placed on a secret waiting list that was part of an elaborate scheme to hide that thousands of sick veterans were being forced to wait months to see a doctor.

If true, this is shockingly unacceptable.

IAVA is joining Senator John McCain, one of two combat vets in the Senate, in calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations. We will keep you updated as more details come out.

IAVA’s mission is simple – to fight for new vets and their families. When irresponsible news media outlets hurt vets – we fight back. And when the government hurts vets – we fight back. We are the watchdog. And everyone should know that our bite is just as vicious as our bark.

These recent allegations also underscore the importance of our recently-launched Campaign to Combat Suicide. With over 22 veterans dying by suicide every day, we need to ensure that all vets have access to the highest quality health care in the country – and that there will be accountability for those who try to cover up the truth.

We must stand together as a community. Especially when our community is under attack.

We are stronger together.