Recently, I had the honor of attending the Congressional Black Caucus, where I participated in a panel discussion centered on one of our nation’s most pressing responsibilities  supporting our veterans. Hosted by U.S. Representatives Don Davis, Sanford D. Bishop, and Lauren Underwood, the event was both inspiring and sobering. It reinforced a truth we must never forget: our veterans have given everything to protect our freedoms, and it’s our duty to ensure they are never left behind when they return home.

A Personal Connection to Service

My father is a proud veteran who served honorably in Germany and South Korea. I witnessed firsthand how his service  though marked by pride and patriotism  also carried a deep emotional toll. His experience shaped my understanding of what so many veterans endure long after their uniforms are hung up. For me, this issue isn’t just political; it’s personal. The sacrifices made by veterans like my father deserve more than our gratitude  they deserve our action.

Leadership, Legacy, and Lessons from General Russel L. Honoré

During the Caucus, I had the privilege of hearing from several distinguished military leaders, including retired General Russel L. Honoré, best known for commanding the military relief efforts during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Nicknamed the “Category 5 General” for his decisive leadership, General Honoré reminded us of the power of resilience and responsibility  not only in crisis but in caring for those who have served. His words echoed deeply: our veterans “just wanted to be on the damn team.” It’s time we ensure that, as a nation, we are on their team too.

The Urgent Need for Comprehensive Veteran Support

Every day, approximately 22 veterans die by suicide. This heartbreaking statistic is a call to immediate action. We must strengthen mental health resources to provide timely, accessible, and culturally competent care for those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

But our duty doesn’t stop there. Veterans also face challenges with physical health, employment, and financial stability. Many return home with injuries that require lifelong care, and too many struggle to reintegrate into the workforce. Expanding job training programs, improving VA funding and staffing, and ensuring equal access to housing and healthcare are essential steps toward restoring dignity and stability to our veterans’ lives.

Preventing Veteran Homelessness

One of the most urgent challenges is veteran homelessness. The transition from active duty to civilian life can be isolating, and without strong community support, too many veterans end up without stable housing. As a nation, we must provide safe, affordable housing options and invest in local programs that keep our veterans off the streets and on a path toward success.

A Commitment to Action: Larriett for Alabama

As I campaign for the 2026 Senate race in Alabama, I am committed to being a relentless advocate for our veterans. My platform Larriett for Alabama is built on compassion, accountability, and equity. I will fight for legislation that:

• Expands mental health care and suicide prevention services

• Improves VA funding and staffing to eliminate long wait times

• Increases job training and workforce reintegration programs

• Strengthens housing assistance and prevents veteran homelessness

As an LGBT candidate in Alabama, I am deeply aware of what it means to fight for representation and respect. That same sense of advocacy drives my mission to ensure every veteran regardless of race, gender, or identity  is treated with the dignity they’ve earned.

Honoring Black Veterans and Building Equity

It’s especially important to highlight the experiences of Black veterans, who have long faced unique barriers both during and after their service. Their contributions to our nation’s defense are immense, yet their recognition and support have often lagged behind. As your future U.S. Senator, I will champion policies that specifically uplift Black veterans, ensuring their voices and stories are part of the national dialogue.

A Future Worth Fighting For

Supporting our veterans is not a political slogan  it’s a moral responsibility. Their service protected our democracy; now it’s our turn to protect their future. Let us unite as Alabamians, as Americans, and as a community committed to justice and compassion.

Together, we can build a future that truly honors the words of General Honoré: service,Larriett for Alabama dedication, and teamwork. Our veterans have given their all  now, it’s our time to give back with action, empathy, and purpose.

Join me in this mission. Together, we can create an Alabama and an America that stands proudly for those who have stood so bravely for us.