This report was published by KRGV, February 10, 2009
Washington, D.C. - Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) kicked off its fourth annual Storm the Hill advocacy week in Washington, D.C. Among them is U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Reynaldo Leal, Jr., an Edinburg resident.
Leal and other group members from across the country will visit Capitol Hill to talk to legislators about issues facing their generation.
"When I came back from serving in Iraq, I saw many veterans struggling to receive the care and benefits they deserve," said Leal. "Veterans have demonstrated their willingness to serve and sacrifice for our nation and are now bringing a new fight to Capitol Hill.”
IAVA is the nation's first and largest nonprofit group for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans.
Leal was chosen as an IAVA representative after an extensive, nationwide application process.
The Valley native was deployed to Iraq twice with 3rd Battalion 5th Marines. During his service, he was awarded several honors, including the Bronze Star with Combat V.
Comments