U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, a Republican representing Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District, spoke at the groundbreaking of the new Bradley County State Veterans Home Wednesday.
DesJarlais called it an “historic moment” according to a press release from his office.
The facility, scheduled for completion in approximately two years, was 16 years in the making. The building will house more than 100 veterans in need of long-term care, the press release went on to say.
In his speech, DesJarlais credited the work of many Tennesseans, who donated time, money and land to the project. His congressional office worked with the Veterans Administration in Washington, D.C. to raise the profile of the project and gain federal financing. State and local sources raised $17 million of the total $47 million required to complete construction, the press release said.
“We’re fulfilling our obligation to those who fought and sacrificed to allow the rest of us to live in freedom in the greatest nation on Earth,” DesJarlais said.
“This veterans home is a powerful symbol of the progress our state and country can make, when we unite as one.”
DesJarlais is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and strong supporter of laws to reform VA health care and other services, the press release said.
In addition to his work for the Bradley County Tennessee State Veterans Home, DesJarlais has voted for a number of bills to reduce veterans’ wait times at VA facilities, increase access to private care, promote in-home care, reduce opioid abuse, and to create economic opportunities for more veterans, according to the press release.
The congressman is also working to ensure active-duty troops have the resources they need to protect the United States, the press release said.
The Volunteer State has a relatively high percentage of Armed Services personnel and veterans, DesJarlais said.
“The Volunteer State has always heeded the call, when our fellow citizens have needed assistance,” he said.
“Our state is home to some of the most advanced military research and testing facilities, and it will soon be home to a state-of-the-art veterans’ facility. I couldn’t be more proud to represent the people of Tennessee’s Fourth District in Congress.”
– – –
Chris Butler is an investigative journalist at The Tennessee Star. Follow Chris on Facebook. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Scott DesJarlais” by Scott DesJarlais.
