Media

In San Diego, Post-9/11 Veterans Demand Answers From President Obama Amid Growing VA Controversy

May 8, 2014
Press

San Diego, CA (May 8, 2014) – Today, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) Founder and CEO Paul Rieckhoff joined local veteran leaders from across the San Diego community – the largest base of IAVA membership in the country – in calling on President Obama to answer questions of accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and address how his Administration will ensure veterans get the care and support they need. President Obama was in San Diego today as allegations of mismanagement and cover-up at the VA continue to grow across the country, with reports from Phoenix, Fort Collins in Colorado, Austin and San Antonio. Earlier this week, the American Legion, San Diego Congressman Duncan Hunter and others called on VA Secretary Eric Shinseki to resign.

“President Obama can’t just come to California and do fundraisers without addressing the largest veteran population during the VA crisis,” said IAVA Founder and CEO Paul Rieckhoff. “IAVA members in San Diego and across the country are outraged and we’re demanding answers. What can America’s veterans expect from the VA?”

If vets are struggling to get care, IAVA has their back. Veterans in San Diego and across California who have experienced delays in care, or need any assistance in transitioning from military to civilian life, can contact our Rapid Response Referral Program (RRRP) team at IAVA.org/RRRP or 855-91-RAPID (855-917-2743).

IAVA also continues to gather stories from veterans and VA employees to assess the scope of VA mismanagement and cover up. Vets and employees can confidentially share their story at https://iava.org/share-your-va-story-iava.