At the heart of laws passed by Congress pertaining to Veterans ought to lie a promise—a promise of justice, protection, and support for those who have honorably served our nation. However, recent developments surrounding the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA) have done anything but provide justice, protection or support, leaving Veterans and their families in a state of disillusionment and uncertainty.
We brought together a coalition of Veterans Service Organizations, echoing our collective concern regarding the recent order on jury trials for Veterans and their family members affected by contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. The United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina has made a decision that strikes at the very core of justice—a decision that undermines the rights of those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Despite explicit language in the CLJA by its congressional authors, the court deemed the jury trial language unclear and ambiguous, granting the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) motion to strike the right to a jury trial. This action, taken by the DOJ, is seen as yet another effort to evade responsibility for the suffering endured by these Veterans and their families.
As an organization, we proudly supported the passage of the CLJA, viewing it as a beacon of hope for those poisoned by the contaminated water. However, instead of relief, these brave Veterans have faced obstacle after obstacle in their pursuit of justice. The DOJ and the Navy have failed to uphold their responsibilities to these victims, leaving them to navigate a system filled with barriers. We refuse to accept this injustice. We demand that the government take responsibility and adhere to the true intent of the CLJA. Members of Congress must not accept this ruling as final; they must stand with Veterans and their families to ensure their right to a jury trial is clarified and protected.
It is our duty to ensure that the promises made to our Veterans are not forgotten or ignored. Join us in this fight for justice.
Read Our VSO Coalition Letter to Congress
Call your Representative to express your concern: House of Representatives Switchboard (202) 224-3121
Support our efforts for justice financially by donating HERE.
