{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Absolute Resolutions","description":"Host Rob Couture opens the first episode of 2026 with VFW leaders for an in-depth discussion on veteran policy priorities and emerging national security issues.&amp;nbsp; The episode centers on the Major Richard Star Act, breaking down why the bill was left out of the National Defense Authorization Act, clarifying misconceptions about cost and jurisdiction, and explaining why the Armed Services Committees play a critical role in advancing the legislation. The panel outlines the VFW\u2019s updated advocacy strategy and how members can help push the bill forward through targeted engagement and calls for congressional hearings.  The discussion also highlights key provisions of the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act, including pay raises, quality-of-life protections, blast exposure oversight, and moral injury research, while noting advocacy priorities that remain unfinished. Additional segments address concerns over proposed VA disability rating schedule revisions, a major legal development involving claims sharks, and a recent U.S. Postal Service policy change that could impact veterans submitting benefit claims by mail.  The episode closes with reflections on the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela, recognition of newly eligible combat veterans, and reminders of the VFW\u2019s ongoing commitment to protecting veterans\u2019 earned benefits and honoring continued service.  Featured Guests: Joy Craig \u2013 Associate Director, VFW National Legislative Service Brian Walker \u2013 Assistant Adjutant General, VFW Ryan Gallucci \u2013 Executive Director, VFW Washington Office  Episode Highlights: 0:00 \u2013 Welcome to the first Still Serving episode of 2026 3:17 \u2013 Major Richard Star Act: status and advocacy strategy 16:44 \u2013 Why concurrent receipt matters for veterans and readiness 45:20 \u2013 NDAA highlights and unfinished priorities 54:40 \u2013 VA disability rating schedule concerns 1:11:30 \u2013 Claims sharks and accountability efforts 1:17:12 \u2013 USPS postmark changes and veteran claims 1:21:15 \u2013 Venezuela operation and recognition of service ","author_name":"#StillServing: The VFW Podcast","author_url":"http:\/\/thevfwpodcast.libsyn.com\/website","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/39759170\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/197562715"}