LONDON, Ky -- Today, ?U.S.? Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) visited with local members of D.A.V. Chapter #66 in London to commend them for continued efforts on behalf of local veterans in the region. Rogers recently helped rescue a counseling program for the chapter after they notified him that mental health services had been cut by half. 

More than 160 veterans from 30 counties receive counseling sessions every week as part of the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) outreach mental health care program. 

"One in six veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan report symptoms of PTSD in addition to the countless veterans who have been coping with post-war issues for decades. We had to move quickly to restore these weekly counseling sessions," said Rogers. "I commend the leaders at the V.A. Medical Center in Lexington for making this program a priority and working to restore these local weekly meetings for our local heroes."

Dr. Keith Pernicano, the new Chief of Mental Health Services at the Lexington V.A. Medical Center, addressed the issue to ensure local veterans' counseling services were not sacrificed by on-going efforts to meet outpatient needs at the Lexington facility.

"PTSD accounts for most of the diagnoses for anxiety-related conditions in VA," said Dr. Pernicano. "Our providers are trained in cutting-edge psychotherapies that place VA in a unique position to help Veterans deal with PTSD and improve their overall life functioning.  We are committed to getting Veterans the care they need, when and where they need it."                                                       

Rogers presented the Commander George Adams and Vice Commander J.D. Roark with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of D.A.V. Chapter #66 for continuing to help their comrades get the help they need.                                                                                                            
                                                       
Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information, visit http://halrogers.house.gov/ or follow Rogers on Twitter or on Facebook.

Rogers presented U.S. Flag to D.A.V. Commander George Adams (right) and Vice Commander J.D. Roark (left)

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