North Michigan News

Rep. Jack Bergman has joined with other legislators and several veterans organizations to announce the formation of the Veteran Alliance for Legislative Outreach and Reform (VALOR), a new national coalition aimed at improving mental healthcare for veterans.

The coalition includes Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), the Navy SEAL Foundation, the Green Beret Foundation, and Wounded Warrior Project as founding members. The goal is to bring together veteran-serving groups, researchers, and policy advocates to address mental health challenges faced by those who have served in the military.

Members of VALOR will have access to research resources, advocacy leadership, and a collaborative network focused on tackling issues affecting veterans and their families.

Rep. Bergman stated, "The VALOR Coalition is uniting partners nationwide to deliver real solutions for Veterans facing PTSD and traumatic brain injury (TBI). With more than 185,000 Veterans in VA care suffering TBI, 13 percent diagnosed with PTSD, and over 6,000 dying by suicide each year, it’s clear current treatments aren’t enough. VALOR is advancing innovative therapies - including breakthrough psychedelic-assisted treatments - while driving research, policy, and access to care. I’m proud to stand with VALOR in their mission to give our heroes the care, hope, and healing they deserve."

Jack Bergman currently represents Michigan’s 1st district in the U.S. Congress after succeeding Dan Benishek in 2017. He was born in Shakopee, Minnesota in 1947 and now lives in Watersmeet. Bergman holds degrees from Gustavus Adolphus College and the University of West Florida.