Tester Statement on VA’s Appointment of Montana’s Lawrence Rhone to the Veterans’ Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation

Lawrence Rhone of Scobey, Montana has been appointed to the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by Secretary Denis McDonough following his nomination by U.S. Senator Jon Tester, Chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. In response, Chairman Tester released the following statement:

'It's critical that Montanans and rural veterans are well represented at VA and that they are empowered to help shape Department policy and ensure services and programs meet the unique needs of folks in rural America. Mr. Rhone is the right man for the job-he's well qualified to serve on the Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation, and I look forward to working with him and the Committee to make good on our promises to all veterans.'

The Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation (VACOR) provides advice to the VA Secretary on the administration of VA's veteran rehabilitation programs and on how VA can best meet the specific rehabilitation needs of veterans with disabilities. As part of this work, the Committee receives briefings on VA partnerships that will enhance the delivery of rehabilitation services for veterans.

In February, Tester recommended Mr. Rhone for nomination to VACOR to then-Acting VA Secretary Dat Tran. Following his confirmation, Rhone will serve a two year term on the Committee.

Mr. Rhone is a service-connected disabled U.S. Army veteran who has dedicated his life and work to advocating for and supporting other veterans. As veteran advocate and service officer in Northeast Montana, he assists veterans in his community with accessing their earned VA services and benefits. Rhone also founded and operates a training and retreat center on his farm in Flaxville, Montana that serves as a resource for veterans struggling with their transition to civilian life.