The honor was presented to Rep. Jen Kiggans during the organization’s Washington Conference.
Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va., received The American Legion’s Distinguished Public Service Award for her commitment to veterans and servicemembers by advocating for their health care, benefits and policies that uphold promises made to those who have worn the uniform. The award was presented to Kiggans by American Legion National Commander James LaCoursiere Jr. on Feb. 24 during the Washington Conference Commander’s Call.
“I certainly understand you are part of my family. You are part of the reason that I’m here in politics advocating for all of us and for our families,” said Kiggans, who served 10 years as a U.S. Navy helicopter pilot and is a member of American Legion Post 110 in Virginia Beach, Va. “I’m grateful for your service and sacrifice, but I know what that means and that commitment that our country has to all of us, and I want to make sure that those promises are kept and make sure you’re getting the benefits you all deserved, the good health care.”
As a nurse practitioner, VA health care has been a priority for Kiggans during her time in Congress, representing Virginia's 2nd District. “I want to make sure that alternative therapies are being approved. I’m a big believer in things like HBOT therapy and alternative treatments we have for mental health and PTSD and anxiety that our veterans often struggle with.”
She also chairs the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee on the Veterans Affairs’ Committee, where she helps hold leadership accountable, and that VA staff, facilities and infrastructure is providing the best care of veterans.
“It’s not a partisan issue for me” Kiggans said. “Health care should never be a partisan issue. We should all be on the same sheet of music, and we should all be doing everything in our potential to take care of veterans.”
Along with her military service, Kiggans is the granddaughter of a Navy World War II veteran, daughter of an Army Green Beret veteran who served in Vietnam, is married to an F-18 pilot and has a son in Navy flight school. And her children have attended American Legion Boys State and Auxiliary Girls State programs.
“It’s a privilege to serve and just to have that service be recognized by a group like The American Legion. I am certainly grateful for all the things that The American Legion does for promoting that pride and patriotism,” she said. “I see the good work you do out in the communities. Continue to do that work. Thank you for doing that work, and it’s a privilege to be partnering with you to make sure we’re taking care of our country and our veterans.”
The American Legion’s Distinguished Public Service Award is given to a public servant in recognition of his or her contributions to legislation on behalf of veterans and servicemembers.
- Washington Conference