Vietnam Veterans of America lauds Lane Evans retiring champion of veterans

WASHINGTON, March 29 /U.S. Newswire/ -- "The veterans community is losing a tireless advocate, a man of unimpeachable integrity, and a great friend," said John Rowan, national president of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) on the retirement, at the end of the 109th Congress, of Representative Lane Evans, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

"Despite suffering the debilitating effects of Parkinson's Disease, Lane Evans has continued to advance an agenda that acknowledges the contributions of veterans to America," Rowan said. "We are proud that he is a life member of VVA, from which we won't let him resign." Rep. Evans was the recipient of VVA's highest award, the Commendation Medal, in 1995.

As Ranking Member, the Illinois Democrat has fought for assured funding of veterans' health care, appropriate care and treatment of veterans suffering from Post- traumatic Stress Disorder and other psychological maladies born of combat, and, most recently, legislation that would allow veterans to be represented by lawyers in their compensation claims with the VA.

"Veterans have many friends in Congress," Rowan said, "but few as staunch as this former Marine lance corporal who has never forgotten the lessons he learned and the bonds he made when he wore the uniform 37 years ago. His energy will be missed," Rowan added, "but his contributions will not be forgotten."

Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) is the nation's only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated to the needs of Vietnam-era veterans and their families. VVA's founding principle is "Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another."