Michael Matos
2:06:11
Good afternoon, council members.
2:06:13
My name is Michael Matos.
2:06:15
I'm a veteran of the United States Coast Guard and now serve as the 1st vice commander of American Legion Post 917.
2:06:22
We are the 1st post to be chartered in New York City in over 10 years, which I believe comes with a special responsibility.
2:06:28
Our mission is to build a multigenerational community of veterans here in the city with a focus on meeting the needs of the post 911 generation and beyond, which is why I'm here today to testify and raise a growing concern that our members have brought to my attention.
2:06:43
A proposal has been presented by role players of the incoming presidential administration to cut government spending that they feel is unnecessary, including funding for VA benefits.
2:06:54
I'm sure we can all agree that this would not only be a disrespectful decision, but also a threat to our national security.
2:07:00
President George Washington once said, the willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by our nation.
2:07:14
With ongoing concerns surrounding military recruitment, how can we expect a conversation to go between a potential service member and a veteran who has had their benefits revoked for the sake of government efficiency?
2:07:27
Conflicts of foreign powers who seek to do us harm are already on the rise.
2:07:31
Are we willing to leave ourselves vulnerable by not responsibly handling the true cost of war?
2:07:36
I look forward to the council's support to ensure any proposals to cut VA benefits as a whole are immediately struck down.
2:07:42
I'd also like to recognize and express my appreciation for my my fellow veteran service organizations that are here today, including the NYC Department of Veterans Services and Exit 12 Dance Company, who can speak much more in-depth on the positive impact arts and culture can have on our veteran community than I can.
2:07:59
Thank you for your time.
