Veterans & Military Families: Keeping America’s Promise

Service to our country should never mean fighting for care at home.

Walter Kirkland is committed to ensuring veterans and military families receive the respect, care, and opportunities they have earned—delivering real results for those who served and sacrificed.

Maryland’s Fifth District is home to thousands of veterans and military families connected to Joint Base Andrews, Naval Air Station Patuxent River, and installations across our region. They kept their promise to serve. Now it’s time for America to keep its promise to them.

Fix the VA and Deliver Real Care

Veterans should not face long wait times, delays, or barriers to basic care. Walter will reduce VA wait times, expand access to mental health services, and hold the system accountable.

If the VA cannot provide care within a reasonable timeframe, veterans should be able to access community care—at no cost—so they receive timely, high-quality treatment.

End the Disability Claims Backlog

No veteran should wait months or years for the benefits they’ve earned. Walter will modernize the claims process, establish clear timelines, and increase transparency so veterans are never left in the dark.

Strengthen Mental Health and Prevent Veteran Suicide

Veteran suicide is a crisis that demands urgent action. Walter will expand access to mental health care, strengthen crisis response services, and ensure veterans can get the support they need—when they need it.

Address Toxic Exposure and Women Veterans’ Health

Walter will support full implementation of the PACT Act to ensure veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic hazards receive proper care. He will also prioritize women veterans’ health and expand services tailored to their needs.

Protect Veterans and Hold Bad Actors Accountable

Veterans deserve protection from exploitation. Walter will support independent prosecution of military sexual assault cases, strengthen support for survivors, and crack down on predatory “claim shark” companies that take advantage of veterans seeking benefits.

Support Military-to-Civilian Transition

Transitioning to civilian life should be seamless. Walter will expand fast-track credentialing, promote veteran hiring incentives, and connect veterans with meaningful career opportunities.

Help Veterans Thrive

Walter believes supporting veterans goes beyond healthcare. He will expand access to homeownership programs, apprenticeships, education, and small business opportunities—ensuring veterans and their families can build strong, stable futures.

The Bottom Line

Walter Kirkland’s commitment is simple:

• Deliver timely, accessible healthcare

• End delays and fix the VA system

• Strengthen mental health and suicide prevention

• Protect veterans from exploitation

• Create real pathways to careers and economic stability

Because veterans should never have to fight a second battle after serving our country.