Paying tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives for our nation is a tremendous honor. I was grateful to spend time with and present Colonel Walter Betley with his General Officer challenge coin, pictured here. It was incredible to hear about his experiences in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. I appreciated the opportunity to honor this true American inspiration for his commitment to protecting our nation. 

Just as we must honor the sacrifices made by veterans like Colonel Walter Betley, we must also ensure they have the care they need. Pictured here, I appreciated meeting with Colonel Mark Tranovich, a practicing orthopedic surgeon at Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Center, and Vivian Hutson, Director of the VA Central Ohio Healthcare System, to discuss recent initiatives to benefit veterans around Ohio’s 15^th District. We discussed ways the VA is working to combat opiate misuse, extend hours for their urgent care facility, and increase efforts in regards to suicide prevention. I plan to continue enriching the lives of our veterans who are invaluable to our community. 

The manufacturing industry remains crucial to propelling Ohio’s economy. Shown above, I appreciated the chance to visit the local Sheet Metal Workers Training Center, which provides hands-on education in metal working. I have been a strong supporter of Career and Technical Education (CTE), including the training offered at the Center, so that all students - adults and children alike - can maximize their potential and help bridge the gap between school and the workforce. Congress must continue to invest in our most valuable resource, our people, and equip them with the necessary skills to succeed. With CTE programs like our local Sheet Metal Workers Training Center, the skilled workers of Ohio’s 15^th District will have the resources to continue enhancing our local and national economy.