June 9 would be designated as Veterans Get Outside Day under a bipartisan resolution sponsored on May 14 by U.S. Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA).
The goal of House Resolution (H.Res.) 1225, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), is to connect United States military service veterans with free outdoor recreational opportunities in their communities and in partnership with the U.S. National Park Service.
“Veterans Get Outside Day is all about encouraging our veterans to explore the great outdoors among their peers and community members — whether that’s hiking, biking, hunting, or casting lines for a big catch,” Rep. Graves said. “Studies consistently highlight the incredible benefits of nature on our well-being, from reducing stress levels to advancing our mental agility. Our veterans deserve support every step of the way.”
If enacted, the resolution would encourage the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. Department of the Interior to coordinate to promote the day along with National Get Outdoors Day.
“Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and many face unique, lifelong health challenges as a result of their service,” said Rep. Moulton. “We are all in this together, and together we can build a community that leads the way on changing how we talk about mental health.”
U.S. Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Angus King (I-ME) in May 2023 introduced the companion legislation, Senate Resolution 206, in the U.S. Senate.
“We owe it to the men and women who fought for our freedoms around the world to address the veteran suicide crisis,” said Sen. Cassidy. “Vets Get Outside Day ensures that our veterans know there is help available to them.”