Multiple studies are linking certain toxic chemicals to health conditions that former military and civilian firefighters may have developed after exposure to firefighting foam they may have used even decades ago. More than 700 military installations are likely contaminated with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) according to the Environmental Working Group. Although research of PFAS is ongoing, the National Cancer Institute is studying the link between PFAS and thyroid, kidney, ovarian, and prostate cancer.

The Veterans Health Administration topped 400,000 employees this month for the first time. Staffing levels were pushed higher by months of aggressive hiring practices by federal officials, and they aren't finished yet. At least part of the hiring push stems from the PACT Act. Provisions in that legislation have allowed more than 100,000 new veterans to sign up for VA medical care in the last year alone.

While even one death is too many, veterans continue to die from suicide at significantly higher rates — 57% — than those who have not served, and it is the second leading cause of death for veterans under the age of 45. The VA has reduced deaths by suicide of veterans receiving its care, but its reach is limited. Not all veterans are eligible for VA services, and fewer than half of eligible veterans use VA services. The good news is that many organizations are already doing important work alongside others to address a broad range of needs for veterans.

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