Congressman Bell Hosts Women Veterans Roundtable to Address Issues Facing Veteran Communities

August 12, 2026 Press Release The discussion brought together women veterans and veteran advocates from across the St. Louis region The roundtable addressed problems specific to women veterans Women are among the fastest-growing groups in the armed forces and veteran community Congressman Bell during the discussion: “Your [female servicemembers] experiences are not a footnote to the veteran story. They are central to it” St. Louis, Missouri – On Monday, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) hosted a roundtable event for women veterans in the St. Louis region. During the discussion, the group of veterans addressed unique problems they have faced as women in a historically male-dominated field. “Women are among the fastest-growing groups of veterans in this country,” said Congressman Bell during the roundtable. “And for too long, the systems meant to serve you were built without you in mind. Too many women veterans have been asked whether they're really the veteran in the family. Too many have struggled to get health care designed for their needs. Too many have navigated the benefits process, the disability claims process, the transition home, feeling like they had to fight a second battle just to receive what they earned. This is simply unacceptable.” Additionally, Congressman Bell noted that this conversation was about large-scale women veterans’ issues and that his office remained available for specific problems people faced with their benefits or care. “We have an obligation to ensure we do everything we can to fight for our vets when they return home. This includes fighting for proper healthcare, housing, and resources ,” said Rep. Bell. “While today’s conversation is about the big-picture issues facing our veteran community, if you're dealing with a specific problem, my office is here for you. My casework team is the best, and they can sit down with you one-on-one to assist with whatever specific issues you are facing. No one should leave here today without knowing where to turn.” Missouri has a long history as a military state, home to multiple installations and training centers spanning several branches of the armed forces. The St. Louis region boasts a significant defense industry footprint. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Bell has been a steadfast supporter of the military community and our nation's veterans. Legislatively, Bell has championed bills like the Healthy Servicemembers Act, the Veterans Career Connection Act , the Forward Act , the Improving Menopause Care for Veterans Act , and the Guard VA Benefits Act , all pieces of legislation aimed at improving services and support for veterans, specifically women veterans. ### Wesley Bell is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's First Congressional District, which includes St. Louis City and a portion of St. Louis County. He is a member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, House Armed Services Committee, and House Foreign Affairs Committee.