September 28, 2004

REP. DILLON HAILED BY VETERANS DEPARTMENT

Representative Patricia Dillon (D-New Haven) has been honored by the Department of Veterans Affairs for her outstanding service to veterans.

During an event at the Veterans Home and Hospital Tuesday, Rep. Dillon was recognized for authoring and championing legislation to establish a new mental health benefit for Connecticut National Guard combat veterans, studying the needs of National Guard families and working to improve the Rocky Hill facility.

Veterans Affairs Commissioner Linda Schwartz called Rep. Dillon a visionary and a revolutionary when it comes to veterans’ issues and issues impacting veterans’ families.

"This was a surprise, but I am very proud to be recognized by the state’s veterans," Rep. Dillon said. "Connecticut must do more to protect those who serve our country. We owe it to our veterans to improve their health benefits and improve the Veterans Home and Hospital."

Representative Dillon was first elected to the General Assembly in 1984. She is Deputy Majority Whip and serves on the Public Health, Appropriations and Judiciary Committees. Rep. Dillon chairs the Health and Hospitals Subcommittee on Appropriations.