Standing with New Mexico’s Veterans

In New Mexico, service is in our blood. For generations, our young men and women have fought bravely in our most storied battles and ascended to the highest levels of the military brass.

We owe our freedom to these heroes, and when they come home, it’s our responsibility to ensure that their futures are bright. During my time in public service, it has been my honor to work on behalf of New Mexico’s veterans and to bring their voices into the halls of Congress.

I’m especially proud of the victories that I’ve been able to win for New Mexico veterans. In recent years, I’ve worked to:

• Pass the Veterans Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act, which provides new resources to the VA to hire medical personnel and reduce the patient backlog.
• Secure funding for the Veteran’s Cemetery in Angel Fire.
• Champion the Wage Adjustment for Veterans Enrolled in School Act, which would ensure that veterans using the GI bill to fund continuing education and work study receive at least the minimum wage of the locality where they work.
• Fight for legislation to assist veterans suffering from depression and behavioral health concerns, improve skill training for veterans seeking manufacturing jobs, reduce veteran homelessness on tribal lands, and encourage employers to hire returning veterans.

I’m proud that our Senate campaign has been endorsed by veterans across New Mexico. Read some of their stories below — and submit your own by clicking here.

“I served in the military for 37.5 years, from May 1968, when I got my draft notice for Vietnam, to November 2005, when I retired. I know that Democrats are the party that really supports our veterans — especially once the war’s over. I support Ben Ray because he’s a good guy, and I know he’s got the wherewithal to be a good senator for this state.”

- Mark Praught, U.S. Army Veteran, Otero County

“I joined the Marine Corps because my father was in Vietnam and I wanted to challenge myself. My career in the military was good, but I was really appalled by the sexual assault problem. People always said that it was a woman’s fault if she was attacked — and there wasn’t enough recognition for women. I’m lucky that [my service] has been recognized here in Gallup, but many of my sisters-in-arms haven’t received that privilege. I’m supporting Ben Ray Luján because he recognizes the contributions of women in the military, and I know he’ll do better for us.”

- Sheila Silva, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, McKinley County

“Ben Ray has really helped open doors for veterans. When I’ve requested his help, he’s been there — and I know he’s been there for other veterans. When I meet with people who need help, I tell them to call Ben Ray Luján.

The military is a small percentage of the [overall] population, so when our leaders really put their energy into helping us, it means a lot.”

- Christopher Abeyta, U.S. Navy Veteran, Santa Fe County

“I’m the commander of the San Felipe Pueblo Veterans Organization. When we started the organization, Ben Ray was the only one who reached out to offer his support, and to connect us with grants and other help. We really support him.”

- Keith Velasquez, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, San Felipe Pueblo

Are you a veteran looking to get more involved with our campaign? Click here to join Veterans for Ben and add a Veterans for Ben Facebook Frame to show off your support for our campaign to your family and friends.