Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-06-25

HONORING THE VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION OF LAKE COUNTY'S 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

DefenseTradeVeterans

Context

On 2026-06-25, Representative Bradley Scott Schneider (D-IL-10) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION OF LAKE COUNTY'S 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY" in the House.

Full Text

HONORING THE VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION OF LAKE COUNTY'S 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 107 (Thursday, June 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 107 (Thursday, June 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E623] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION OF LAKE COUNTY'S 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. BRADLEY SCOTT SCHNEIDER of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, June 25, 2026 Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County (VACLC) as it celebrates 100 years of service to the veterans and families of Lake County, Illinois. Founded in 1926, the VACLC came into being when local veterans recognized the need for a centralized organization dedicated to serving veterans and their families. For a century, the VACLC has worked tirelessly to ensure that the men and women who served our Nation receive the benefits, resources, and support they have earned through their sacrifice. What began as a single service office has become a well-respected veteran's service organization in Illinois and has aided veterans from all eras and conflicts. Today, the Commission offers a broad range of essential services, including disability claims advocacy, financial assistance, burial benefits, and survivors' benefits. The VACLC also provides professional representation for veterans navigating the claims and appeals process, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the benefits which they have earned and deserve. Notably, the VACLC provides these services free of charge as part of the Commission's unwavering commitment to serving veterans and their families. The Commission's continued success is due in large part to the dedication of its leadership and staff. Led by Executive Director Andrew Tangen since 2017, the VACLC has expanded its impact and strengthened its service to veterans throughout Lake County. A United States Navy veteran who served eight deployments and attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander, Mr. Tangen has brought his extensive military, legal, and professional experience to the Commission. His leadership has positioned the organization for continued success in serving the growing needs of today's veterans. Working closely with local governments, community organizations, and veteran advocates throughout Lake County, the VACLC continues to ensure that no veteran is left behind. I am especially proud of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County's partnership with my office. Every year the VACLC has joined me honoring our local veterans at my annual Veterans Day Breakfast and has partnered with my staff to help share our community's gratitude through our annual Valentines for Veterans program. Their commitment to our veterans extends far beyond the many services they provide. Mr. Speaker, the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County embodies the values of service, dedication, and community that make my district a desired home for so many veterans. As the VACLC celebrates their centennial anniversary, I congratulate its leadership, staff, volunteers, and clients on this remarkable milestone and thank them for 100 years of outstanding service to our veterans. I look forward to seeing the Commission continue its important mission for many years to come. ____________________

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HONORING THE VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION OF LAKE COUNTY'S 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 107 (Thursday, June 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 107 (Thursday, June 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E623] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION OF LAKE COUNTY'S 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. BRADLEY SCOTT SCHNEIDER of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, June 25, 2026 Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County (VACLC) as it celebrates 100 years of service to the veterans and families of Lake County, Illinois. Founded in 1926, the VACLC came into being when local veterans recognized the need for a centralized organization dedicated to serving veterans and their families. For a century, the VACLC has worked tirelessly to ensure that the men and women who served our Nation receive the benefits, resources, and support they have earned through their sacrifice. What began as a single service office has become a well-respected veteran's service organization in Illinois and has aided veterans from all eras and conflicts. Today, the Commission offers a broad range of essential services, including disability claims advocacy, financial assistance, burial benefits, and survivors' benefits. The VACLC also provides professional representation for veterans navigating the claims and appeals process, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the benefits which they have earned and deserve. Notably, the VACLC provides these services free of charge as part of the Commission's unwavering commitment to serving veterans and their families. The Commission's continued success is due in large part to the dedication of its leadership and staff. Led by Executive Director Andrew Tangen since 2017, the VACLC has expanded its impact and strengthened its service to veterans throughout Lake County. A United States Navy veteran who served eight deployments and attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander, Mr. Tangen has brought his extensive military, legal, and professional experience to the Commission. His leadership has positioned the organization for continued success in serving the growing needs of today's veterans. Working closely with local governments, community organizations, and veteran advocates throughout Lake County, the VACLC continues to ensure that no veteran is left behind. I am especially proud of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County's partnership with my office. Every year the VACLC has joined me honoring our local veterans at my annual Veterans Day Breakfast and has partnered with my staff to help share our community's gratitude through our annual Valentines for Veterans program. Their commitment to our veterans extends far beyond the many services they provide. Mr. Speaker, the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County embodies the values of service, dedication, and community that make my district a desired home for so many veterans. As the VACLC celebrates their centennial anniversary, I congratulate its leadership, staff, volunteers, and clients on this remarkable milestone and thank them for 100 years of outstanding service to our veterans. I look forward to seeing the Commission continue its important mission for many years to come. ____________________