WC Wisconsin News

WASHINGTON. D.C. - Congressman Derrick Van Orden, along with the Wisconsin Delegation, has introduced legislation to rename the Tomah Veterans' Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Tomah, Wisconsin to the 'Jason Simcakoski Veterans' Affairs Medical Center'. This move aims to honor the memory of Jason Simcakoski, a former United States Marine Corporal who tragically lost his life due to over-prescription of pain medications at the Tomah VA.

"Jason and I did not serve together, but we are fellow veterans and Brothers in Arms," said Congressman Van Orden. "As a nation, we owe him and his family a debt that can never be fully repaid. We can never allow Jason's tragic story to be forgotten, and by naming the Tomah VA Medical Center after him, he will continue his service to our nation by ensuring our healthcare professionals provide the highest standard of care to those who have protected our freedoms and are held accountable when they do not. I am profoundly grateful to the Members of the Wisconsin Delegation who helped make this possible. Semper Fi, Marine. We have the watch."

Jason Simcakoski's father, Marv Simcakoski, expressed gratitude for the renaming of the Tomah VA, stating, "I'm grateful to Congressman Van Orden and Senator Baldwin’s leadership to rename the Tomah VA. I really appreciate the bipartisan support of the entire Wisconsin Congressional Delegation and I’m thankful for the good people at the Tomah VA who work hard to serve and treat our veterans. Now, every veteran who walks through the doors at Tomah VA will remember Jason’s service and know the difference he made for his fellow veterans."

Senator Tammy Baldwin, who has been actively involved in improving care and protecting veterans, also emphasized the importance of honoring Jason's legacy through this renaming. She said, "Today, veterans across the country are receiving better, safer care because of ‘Jason’s Law.’ By renaming the Tomah VA, we will continue to honor Jason’s legacy and the Simcakoski family’s work to ensure this devastating loss continues saving lives for years to come."

Senator Ron Johnson highlighted Jason's determination in exposing the deadly opioid prescription practices at the Tomah VA while he himself was suffering from those abuses. He stated, "Renaming the Tomah VA Medical Center after Jason will honor his efforts to try to save himself and other veterans from the systemic abuses that occurred and serve as a constant reminder of the duty of care owed to every veteran."

This legislation aims to remember Jason Simcakoski's service and sacrifice while also bringing attention to the need for improved healthcare practices for veterans. By renaming the Tomah VA Medical Center, his legacy will live on, and the focus will be on providing the highest standard of care to all veterans who seek treatment at the facility.