“It has been a great honor to visit with those who have so proudly served this country at times of war and peace,” said Dr. Mackay.  “I find it very useful to gain input from constituents around this nation with respect to VA issues.  As a policy administrator in this arena, I want everyone to know that Congressman Johnson has been a solid advocate on behalf of Veterans and is very diligent in communicating their legislative priorities in Washington.”

Rep. Johnson, a familiar face to Veterans in Central Illinois, said this was the second Town Hall Meeting he has organized at the Illiana Health Care System in Danville during his two years in Congress.  He believes it is important to keep constant communication with Veterans as federal policies continually change.

“Veterans know that they can contact my office at any time they have a question about the VA,” stated Johnson.  “I am very responsive to their inquiries because I believe that it is our duty as a country to keep our promises to Veterans, and make sure they are getting the proper care and the attention that they deserve.”

Johnson continued, “It is a great privilege to have Deputy Secretary Mackay visit my District, and the wonderful VA facility that is a vital service to the entire Illiana region.  He and the Bush Administration are an asset to this country’s Vets.  I value the excellent working relationship that Dr. Mackay and I have established and intend to continue working with the VA on the issues that matter most to my constituents.”

Rep. Johnson and Dr. Mackay entertained a variety of questions from the several Veterans who attended Saturday’s Town Hall Meeting.  They also took a tour of the facility, and learned about services that Illiana offers.  The administration at Illiana Health Care was proud to play host to the high-level visit, and invited both policy makers back for future visits.