(N. Kansas City) - U.S. Congressman Sam Graves was joined by dozens of veterans in St. Joseph today to announce the formation of Veterans for Graves. Rep. Jason Brown, an Iraq War veteran, will serve as Chairman of Veterans for Graves. Operation Just Cause Veteran Bill Flynt will serve as Vice-Chair of the coalition.

“Sam Graves has a record of standing up for veterans,” said Rep. Jason Brown. “That is why we are all proud to stand with Sam Graves and support his campaign for Congress.”

Brown also pointed out that Kay Barnes’ record on energy would hurt veterans and all Missourians.

“The only things Kay Barnes has to offer our veterans is a more expensive trip to the VA, because of her refusal to end the ban on drilling in ANWR and off the coast,” said Brown. “Veterans cannot afford Kay Barnes.”

Since Sam Graves has been in Congress, veterans funding has increased by over 95 percent. He co-sponsored the Wounded Warriors Bill to ensure our veterans receive the care they need. Graves also was a co-sponsor of the bi-partisan 21st Century G.I. Bill which provided the men and women serving our country access to a four year college education.

“I know that I can never repay my gratitude for their service, but I am determined to keep our country’s commitment to them,” Graves said. “Those who are defending our freedom deserve our gratitude. I am honored to have their support.”