Congress Passes Big Vet COLA: Lawmakers have approved a measure that would provide the largest Cost of Living Adjustment to veterans since 1991, says Sen. Larry Craig (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. The boost would be 4.1 percent. If President Bush signs the measure, veterans will see the increase in their January paychecks. The legislation benefits nearly 2.6 million veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.