Representative David Rouzer

Dear Friend,

This past week the nation honored those who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep America free. In honor of all of our Veterans, I thought it would be timely to remind those who served of the resources available to them on behalf of a very grateful country. Also below are some highlights of Veterans who were honored in North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District.

As a Member of Congress, I believe we all should honor and support those who have served our great nation. I carefully review all legislation impacting Veterans’ benefits because servicemembers and all of our Veterans deserve our strongest support. I remain committed to serving Veterans and their families in North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District, and one of those ways is by helping them navigate the federal agencies for the services that are specifically made available to them. My office is available to provide assistance as needed so please take advantage of these resources.

Veterans Affairs Services & Resources

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a wide range of resources to support Veterans. For questions or assistance, the primary contact number for VA Support at (800) 698-2411.

Additional resources include:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1
Vet Centers: (877) 927-8387
Homeless Veteran Resources: Call or Text (877) 424-3838
Ask VA
Schedule a 1-on-1 Appointment with a VA Benefits Expert
Find a VA facility near you

For non-urgent needs, Veterans may also use the VA Health & Benefits App or My HealtheVet secure messaging to schedule appointments, request prescription refills, and access medical records.

VA Pregnancy Care

The VA provides comprehensive maternity care for pregnant Veterans, including prenatal care, delivery, postpartum care, and initial care for newborns. For more information, visit Women’s Health or contact the Women Veterans Call Center at (855) 829-6636 for more information.

Honoring and Recognizing Community Members

Fayetteville State University hosted its annual military luncheon on April 30, honoring community partners who continue to support the military and Veteran community. During the event, four individuals representing distinguished organizations were recognized, including LTG (Ret.) Kevin Vereen of the North Carolina Military Affairs Commission (NC MAC); Dr. June L. Roberts, representing the Fayetteville VA Medical Center; MG (Ret.) Al Aycock of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA); and LTC (Ret.) Jim Whaley of Mission Roll Call. At the event, a member of my team also presented flags I had requested to be flown over the United States Capitol in their honor.

These leaders and organizations play an important role in supporting Veterans who have selflessly served to preserve the freedoms of this great country. I want to thank each of them for their continued support of our community. It is truly appreciated!

Congressional Resources for Veterans

Veteran and Military Services: If you or someone you know needs assistance with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, my office can assist Veterans in obtaining military records and medals, answering questions about VA benefits, and helping those experiencing challenges with the VA healthcare system or the claims and appeals process.

U.S. Flags: My office can assist NC-07 constituents in acquiring an American flag, which can be flown over the U.S. Capitol, to honor an individual or commemorate a special occasion or event, such as a military retirement.

Congressional Commendations: I am pleased to send congratulatory letters to NC-07 residents recognizing special occasions such as military retirements, acts of bravery, scouting achievements, and other notable events. I can also request Presidential Greetings to commemorate a significant birthday, wedding anniversary, or retirement.

My staff and I are only a phone call, email, or office visit away. If I can assist you with any of the services listed above, please contact my office at (202) 225-2731.

County Veterans Services Offices

Below are our local county offices who can provide information and assistance to residents with Veterans’ services. Please visit these websites or call the numbers below for more information.

Bladen County: (910) 862-6781
Brunswick County: (910) 253-2233
Columbus County: (910) 640-6638
Cumberland County: (910) 677-2970
New Hanover County: (910) 798-7611
Pender County: (910) 259-1203
Sampson County: (910) 592-2862
Robeson County: (910) 671-3071

Good News Story

When Mrs. Taylor realized her husband’s Vietnam War medals were missing, she reached out to my office for assistance in replacing them ahead of his upcoming Honor Flight, a national program which brings Veterans to Washington, DC to visit the monuments and memorials built to honor the service and sacrifice of our Veterans.

My office was able to help secure replacement medals, including the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge (1st Award). (At the time this photo was taken, Mr. Taylor had no idea what was inside the box. It was a surprise presentation during his Honor Flight experience!)

It was a true privilege to help restore these meaningful symbols of his service and ensure he could be properly recognized during such a special and well-deserved trip.

If you or someone you know needs assistance like Mr. Taylor, please contact my office through my website or call my office at (202) 225-2731.

Closing Thoughts...

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. American will never forget their sacrifices.” - President Harry Truman