NEW YORK, NY (MAY 11, 2018) – On June 6, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the leading voice of the Post-9/11 generation of veterans, will host its second annual “IAVA Salutes” event to recognize individuals who have demonstrated tremendous courage and leadership in support of the veterans community at its annual IAVA Salutes event in Washington D.C.

IAVA will honor Leo Shane with the Award for Leadership in Journalism for his excellence in reporting on veterans issues on Capitol Hill. IAVA will also honor Representative Brian Mast (FL-19) with the Award for Leadership in Government for his focus and effectiveness in ensuring veterans remain a priority on Capitol Hill.

“This is a historic event honoring two of our nation’s greatest veterans advocates. Congressman Brian Mast is a combat-wounded Afghanistan veteran who has consistently put country over self. Congressman Mast is a leader on critical veterans issues in Washington, including sponsoring IAVA supported legislation on toxic exposures and cosponsoring IAVA-led legislation on women veterans,” said Paul Rieckhoff, Founder and CEO of IAVA. “We are also honored to have the opportunity to recognize Leo Shane, one of the most dedicated and effective reporters covering veterans issues. Leo’s reporting has changed the course of history for veterans, holding leaders in Washington accountable to our nation’s veterans and ensuring veterans stories are told.”

In 2017, the first annual IAVA Salutes event honored ABC News Correspondent Martha Raddatz and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, and featured live music and veteran leaders from across the country.

Tickets and sponsor opportunities are available to IAVA Salutes and can be reserved here or by emailing events@iava.org.