News Summary
Community members in Coronado gathered to protest proposed cuts to Veterans Affairs services. Organized by local leaders, the rally coincided with the anniversary of D-Day. Veterans shared personal stories highlighting the crucial role of VA support, emphasizing that care for veterans should transcend political affiliations. With significant staffing cuts proposed, attendees expressed strong consensus on the need for improved services and support for those who served the country.
Coronado, California – Community members gathered at Spreckels Park on June 6, 2025, to protest proposed cuts to Veterans Affairs (VA) services by the Trump administration. The protest coincided with the 81st anniversary of D-Day, a significant event in military history. Approximately 150 people attended the rally, holding signs that read “Support our Veterans” and “Some gave all, all gave some. Respect our Vets.”
The event was organized by former NBC war correspondent Brad Willis, who noted Coronado’s military town status, attributed to Naval Base Coronado’s presence. Willis emphasized that veterans have always supported the country and now it’s time for the community to support them. The rally featured speeches from several former service members who shared their experiences and emphasized the importance of VA care in their lives.
One of the veterans, Louis Irvin, a retired Navy veteran, highlighted a personal story about how the VA played a crucial role in his survival after suffering a spinal cord injury nearly three decades ago. Other participants, both veterans and non-veterans, echoed the sentiment that supporting veterans should transcend political lines, framing it as a fundamental issue that deserves recognition regardless of party affiliation.
Participants included Steve Phillips, a cardiothoracic surgeon who serves at the VA, who underlined the importance of principled support for veterans. According to Phillips, the VA is well-acquainted with the needs of millions of veterans and should not be subject to budget cuts. Advocates Jean and Howard Somers were also in attendance, honoring their son Daniel, an Iraq War veteran who tragically lost his life to suicide. They have been instrumental in creating the Sergeant Daniel Somers Veterans Network of Support Act and called for improvements to VA services without cuts to personnel or programs.
The protest march proceeded to the intersection of Orange Avenue and Fourth Street, where participants received support from numerous honking vehicles, illustrating community solidarity. Former U.S. Navy Seal Al Kovac expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public and remarked on how decisions made at the federal level directly impact veterans and their families.
Reports indicate that proposed staffing cuts could eliminate more than 80,000 jobs within the VA as the department aims to return to staffing levels seen in 2019. The VA serves approximately 15 million veterans and is the largest healthcare system in the United States. Critics argue that reductions to the VA’s workforce, which have already seen over 2,400 positions cut, primarily affect non-mission critical roles and could jeopardize the quality of care provided to veterans.
Kovac shared his personal experience of becoming quadriplegic due to a parachute training accident in the Navy. He credits the VA for restoring his dignity and health, asserting the importance of maintaining support systems for veterans as many continue to grapple with war-related injuries and the long-term effects on their lives.
Overall, the sentiments expressed during the protest reflected a strong consensus among attendees: there is a pressing need for ongoing support and improvements in Veteran Affairs services. The community’s rally demonstrates a commitment to advocating for veterans’ rights and ensuring they receive the care and respect they deserve.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Veterans Rally Against Proposed VA Cuts in Coronado
Veterans Protest Trump’s VA Reforms in Coronado
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Coronado Job Fair on April 10: A Great Chance for Job Seekers
Additional Resources
- NBC San Diego
- Wikipedia: Veterans Affairs (United States)
- CBS 8
- Google Search: Veteran Affairs
- San Diego Union-Tribune
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Veterans Affairs
- Times of San Diego
- Google News: Proposed Cuts to Veterans Affairs
