Gabbard Joins New Servicewomen, Veterans Caucus

Issues include mental health and suicide, sexual trauma and retention.

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Four female veterans in the U.S. House of Representatives this week launched a new Servicewomen and Women Veterans Congressional Caucus.

Reps. Tulsi Gabbard (Democrat of Hawaii), Chrissy Houlahan (Democrat of Pennsylvania), Elaine Luria (Democrat of Virginia) and Mikie Sherrill (Democrat of New Jersey) represent “the largest number of women veterans ever serving in a session of the House,” according to Gabbard’s office.

Rep. Gabbard announcing the new servicewomen and veterans caucus in D.C. this week. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

“With increasing numbers of women serving in our U.S. military, our caucus will provide a platform to address issues related to their service as well as ensuring they get the care they need from the VA when they lay down the uniform,” Caucus Vice Chair Gabbard said in a press release.

She added: “I’ve served in the Army National Guard for over 16 years, deployed twice to the Middle East, and still serve as a Major today. I look forward to bringing the perspective gained through this experience to our caucus where we can be a voice for women serving now, and create a better future for those who will join our ranks in the years to come.”

Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, while Luria and Sherrill are Navy veterans.

Issues facing servicewomen and female veterans include mental health and suicide, military sexual trauma and retention.

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