On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump delivered his highly anticipated presidential address to a joint session of Congress. As the nation watched, one person was noticeably absent from the Capitol building – Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins.
Collins, a former Army Ranger and Iraq War veteran, was named the designated survivor for the evening. This means that in the event of a catastrophic event that would incapacitate the president and other top government officials, Collins would assume the role of acting president.
This is a significant responsibility, and one that Collins takes seriously. As a veteran himself, he understands the importance of protecting our nation and its leaders. And as the head of the Department of Veterans Affairs, he is no stranger to taking on challenging roles and making tough decisions.
Collins’ selection as the designated survivor is a testament to his leadership and dedication to serving his country. It is also a reflection of the trust and confidence that President Trump has in him.
During his time as VA Secretary, Collins has made it his mission to improve the lives of our nation’s veterans. He has implemented numerous reforms and initiatives to modernize the VA and ensure that our veterans receive the care and support they deserve.
Under his leadership, the VA has seen significant improvements in the timeliness and quality of healthcare services for veterans. He has also prioritized addressing issues such as veteran homelessness and mental health, working tirelessly to provide resources and support for those in need.
Collins’ commitment to our veterans extends beyond his role as VA Secretary. As a member of the Army Reserve, he continues to serve his country while also fulfilling his duties as a cabinet member. This dedication to both his military and civilian duties is a testament to his character and sense of duty.
As the designated survivor, Collins’ absence from the joint session of Congress was a reminder of the sacrifices that our veterans make every day. While the rest of the nation watched the president’s address, Collins stood ready to fulfill his duty if called upon.
His selection as the designated survivor also highlights the important role that the Department of Veterans Affairs plays in our government. As the second-largest federal agency, the VA is responsible for providing services and benefits to over 20 million veterans and their families. With Collins at the helm, the VA is in capable hands, and our veterans can rest assured that their needs will be met.
In a statement, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders praised Collins for his service and dedication, saying, “Secretary Collins is a true American hero and a dedicated public servant. The president has full confidence in his ability to lead the VA and serve as the designated survivor.”
Collins’ selection as the designated survivor is a proud moment for all veterans and a reminder of the sacrifices they have made for our country. It is also a testament to the leadership and strength of character that he brings to his role as VA Secretary.
As we continue to honor and support our veterans, let us also recognize and commend Secretary Collins for his unwavering commitment to serving our nation. He is a true patriot and a shining example of what it means to be a leader.
