It took until the wee hours on Saturday morning, but the Senate approved the “omnibus” Veterans Affairs $3.2 billion bill, followed Friday’s House passage of the legislation. The bill, which now goes to President Bush, funnels $600 million into the repair or new construction of veterans facilities in hurricane-devastated New Orleans and the Gulf Coast; provides for construction of new facilities nationwide; funds the hiring of more clinicians to treat veterans returning from Southwest Asia; increases funding for programs assisting homeless vets; and creates an office of rural health for veterans. Senate veterans committee chair Larry Craig (R-Idaho), said in a statement: “There were some serious disagreements between members on a few issues, but everyone compromised a little. That’s what it takes.” His counterpart in the House, Steve Buyer (R-Ind.), underscored that sentiment, saying, “Congress worked in a bipartisan effort to pass this important bill, and the winners are veterans and their families.”
Work Has Begun to Adapt Qatari 747 to Fly as Air Force One
Sept. 15, 2025
The Air Force has started modifying a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for "executive airlift," a spokesperson said Sept. 15. President Donald Trump has said he wants to fly the jet as “Air Force One” since new presidential transports, held up by delays, won't be ready until after his term…
