Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has expressed his concern and disappointment regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) decision to remove medallions honoring World War II veterans from headstones in VA cemeteries across Montana. In a letter addressed to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, Daines raised his objections to the directive and requested its immediate reversal.

Daines emphasized the significance of these medallions in honoring the Montanans who served in the First Special Service Forces (FSSF). He highlighted that these veterans were previously remembered for their special service with a medallion placed on their headstones. However, the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) has cited a "long-standing" policy prohibiting the use of medallions on VA purchased headstones as the reason behind their removal.

Expressing his disappointment, Daines stated, "I, like many of Montana's veterans and their families, find it outrageous that a small medallion would in any way diminish the appearance of a headstone or prevent maintenance." He criticized the NCA directive as an example of bureaucratic excess that creates more issues than it resolves.

In his letter, Daines called on Secretary McDonough to rescind the directive and provide transparency to the veterans and their families affected by this decision. He requested a briefing from the National Cemetery Administration, seeking answers as to why the directive was given and why it appears to be selectively enforced. Daines also urged concrete steps to ensure that such actions do not occur again in the future.

Daines concluded his letter by thanking Secretary McDonough for his attention to this matter and expressing his anticipation of a prompt response. The full letter can be accessed on Daines' official website.

As a staunch advocate for Montana veterans, Daines has consistently worked towards supporting their welfare and honoring their service. His efforts to ensure that these medallions are reinstated on headstones in VA cemeteries across Montana reflect his commitment to preserving the memory and sacrifice of these brave individuals.