As a proud disabled Air Force veteran and a federal employee, I never imagined I would find myself pleading for help—for myself, my fellow veterans, and the thousands of others who dedicated their lives to serving this country. But today, I write with urgency and desperation.
The Trump administration’s mass removal of federal employees, hiring freezes, and discussions of dismantling VA benefits are more than bureaucratic shakeups; they are a direct assault on those who have already sacrificed so much. For veterans who have transitioned from active duty into federal service, these actions are not just job losses—they are threats to stability, well-being, and even survival.
Veterans like me serve in federal roles because we are called to continue our mission, to serve the American people just as we once served in uniform. We bring discipline, commitment, and an unwavering sense of duty to our jobs. Yet now, many of us—especially those new to the federal workforce—are being cast aside.
This upheaval is having devastating consequences. Many of my colleagues are veterans in probationary status, meaning they can be let go without cause. These individuals rely on their jobs for health care, income, and a sense of purpose. The anxiety the Trump administration is causing only compounds the existing struggles many of us face with PTSD, depression, and other mental health challenges caused by our service. I am deeply worried that the stress and instability could push some to a breaking point.
The recent dismissal of 1,000 VA employees has only exacerbated the crisis. These weren’t just numbers on a ledger—they were real people, many of them veterans themselves, working to process claims, provide care, and ensure that our fellow service members get the support they need. Now, those vital services are in jeopardy, and the ripple effects will be felt by veterans across the country. The Trump administration claims these cuts will save money, but at what cost? Delayed claims processing? Overburdened caseworkers? More veterans falling through the cracks?
We cannot stand by in silence. We cannot let our veterans become collateral damage in a political or budgetary game. Congress must act now to:
- Implement immediate protections for veteran federal employees – Veterans who have transitioned into the federal workforce should not be left vulnerable to sudden job loss. Probationary status policies must be reevaluated to ensure due process and security for those who have served.
- Stop the dismantling of VA services – Cutting critical VA personnel undermines the mission of serving veterans and creates unnecessary barriers to care. Congress must scrutinize these decisions and push for solutions that do not harm those who need support the most.
Veteran service organizations (VSOs) must also take immediate action. These organizations exist to advocate for and protect veterans, and now is the time to step up. VSOs should publicly condemn the Trump administration’s actions, pressure lawmakers to reverse harmful decisions, and provide emergency support for displaced veterans. Whether through legal assistance, employment aid, or mental health support, VSOs must mobilize their networks to ensure that no veteran is left behind. Silence is complicity, and veterans deserve fierce, unwavering advocacy in this moment of crisis.
To my fellow veterans: You are not alone. To members of Congress: You have a duty to those who have defended this nation. To veteran service organizations: Now is the time to fight for those you represent.
This is not just a policy issue; it is a moral imperative. Veterans answered the call to serve. Now, we need you to answer ours.
With unwavering resolve,
A Proud VA Employee and Disabled Air Force Veteran
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Due to the Trump administration’s climate of fear, intimidation, and retribution, the author’s name has been withheld.
