427 – Audry McHugh - Advocating for Non-American Veterans

I talked with returning guest, Audrey McHugh, the “Amazonian Warrior,” a veteran and founder of the Amazonian Warrior Foundation. Audrey’s foundation supports military personnel impacted by sexual assault and PTSD, while her advocacy extends to a pressing issue: deported veterans. This conversation had a different focus because Audry is helping Veterans who are not American citizens. There are documented cases where these Veterans get deported. Historically, immigrant veterans were guaranteed citizenship as recognition for their service, a practice dating back to the War of 1812. However, policy changes—shifting deportation oversight from the Department of Defense to ICE—have jeopardized this promise. Audrey outlines how this issue is often politicized, overshadowing its foundation as a matter of veteran rights. Audrey shares heartbreaking stories, including Arturo, a deported veteran denied life-saving care, whose death underscores the system’s failings. She emphasizes that these veterans served honorably and deserve both recognition and the benefits they’ve earned. Through coalitions with organizations like the VFW and American Legion, Audrey is driving legislative efforts such as the Richard Starr Act and HR 4569 to protect veteran citizenship rights. She stresses the need for bipartisan support, as this issue transcends political divides and impacts military recruitment and morale. Audrey’s advocacy is a rallying cry for action. She urges listeners to contact their representatives and push for legislative change. By uniting as a community, we can ensure these veterans receive the citizenship and support they deserve, honoring their sacrifices and fulfilling the promises made to them. Go to https://amazonianwarriorfoundation.org/ to learn more and connect Thank you for talking with me Audry. We are Oscar Mike, Mission in Flight!