Friends,

It’s been a meaningful and busy week here in Virginia’s Second District. I joined local veterans and military families for Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremonies to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I hosted our annual Service Academy Night to help prepare the next generation of military leaders, and I attended a moving event with our Jewish community to remember the young couple tragically murdered in Washington, D.C. I also had the opportunity to visit with Sailors, Civilian Mariners, and Navy leadership across key installations in our district—and spent time meeting with constituents to hear directly about the issues that matter most to them.

Now, onto my Weekly Debrief!

What the Reconciliation Bill Means for You

In case you missed it, I recently shared why I supported the House’s latest reconciliation bill in the Virginian-Pilot. This bill reflects the values of Coastal Virginia—protecting Medicaid for those who truly need it, cutting taxes on overtime and tips, supporting our service members and shipbuilders, and keeping small businesses strong.

Read my full statement here and below.

Since coming to Congress, I’ve worked to deliver results that strengthen our national defense, support our military families, and ease the burden of rising costs on Coastal Virginians. This federal spending bill reflects those priorities—eliminating federal taxes on tips, safeguarding Medicaid for those who rely on it, and investing in our shipbuilding workforce. It’s a step forward for our community and a reflection of the values we fight for every day.

Honoring Our Fallen Heroes at the Virginia Beach Memorial Day Parade

This Memorial Day, I had the solemn honor of joining local leaders, veterans, Gold Star families, and members of our community at the Tidewater Veterans Memorial in Virginia Beach. Hosted by Mayor Bobby Dyer, the City’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony was a moving tribute to the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. With heartfelt remarks and powerful musical tributes, the ceremony reminded us all of the high cost of our freedom.



As a Navy veteran and proud representative of so many military families in VA-02, I was especially touched by the strength and resilience of our Gold Star families in attendance. Their courage and sacrifice reflect the very best of America. It was humbling to stand with them in remembrance and gratitude.

We are the land of the free because of the brave—and on Memorial Day, we come together not only to mourn our heroes, but to honor them by living lives worthy of their sacrifice. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who came out to show their support and respect. May we never forget those who laid down their lives for our country, and may we continue to serve and support the families they left behind.

Recognizing the Vital Role of Civilian Mariners

 This week, I had the opportunity to visit the Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) training facility at JEB Little Creek, right here in VA-02.

As a Navy veteran, I know firsthand how essential our Civilian Mariners (CIVMARs) are to our fleet. They operate the ships that keep our Navy supplied, mobile, and ready to respond anywhere in the world. These mariners are the unsung heroes of our national defense, delivering fuel, food, and critical supplies to our sailors at sea.

This facility not only prepares CIVMARs for that vital mission, it also provides high-quality, high-paying career opportunities for those looking to serve in a different way. For anyone interested in maritime service, meaningful work, and the chance to travel the world, MSC is a path worth exploring.

I’ll continue fighting in Congress to ensure that our CIVMARs have the training, resources, and support they need, because when they succeed, our Navy succeeds.

Empowering the Next Generation of Military Leaders

As a Navy veteran and proud mom of service academy graduates, I always find it incredibly rewarding to spend time with young people who are exploring paths to serve our country in uniform. This week, my office hosted our 2025 Service Academy Information Night at the Goode Fine Arts Center at Virginia Wesleyan University—and it was an inspiring evening!

We welcomed students and families from across VA-02 who are considering careers in the armed forces. Representatives from our nation’s prestigious service academies, the Virginia Military Institute, ROTC programs, and the U.S. Merchant Marines shared valuable information and personal stories to help guide students as they consider this important next step. From admissions advice to life as a cadet or midshipman, the insight provided was second to none.

I’m incredibly grateful to the servicemembers and academy representatives who took the time to invest in the future of our military. The students who attended were thoughtful, driven, and passionate—exactly the kind of leaders our country needs.

To any student who couldn’t make it but is interested in applying for a service academy nomination through my office, we’re here to help! Please reach out to my team at 757-364-7650 or click here—we’d be honored to support you on your journey to serve.

Our Week in Photos!!

It’s been a meaningful and inspiring week here in VA-02!

From touring the USS Philippine Sea and meeting the incredible sailors who serve aboard her, to connecting with students and families at our Service Academy Information Night, and finally honoring our fallen heroes at the Virginia Beach Memorial Day Parade—each event was a reminder of the deep pride and patriotism that defines our community. I'm grateful every day to represent such a dedicated, service-minded district.

Check out a few of my favorite pictures below..!!

Weekly Poll

With over 1,500 responses last week, 24% of you cited "Cost and availability of housing" as your top concern. I hear you loud and clear. As your representative, I’m committed to working on commonsense, bipartisan solutions that make housing more affordable and accessible for hardworking families in our district. Whether it's improving access to healthcare, strengthening K–12 education, expanding childcare options, or creating better job opportunities—each issue you highlighted is a vital piece of what makes VA-02 a a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you for staying engaged and for helping me better serve you in Congress!

And now, onto this week's poll question...!

Medal of Honor Recipient of the Week

This week, I would like to honor Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient, William Edward Adams, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Maj. Adams distinguished himself on 25 May 1971 while serving as a helicopter pilot in Kontum province in the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, Maj. Adams volunteered to fly a lightly armed helicopter in an attempt to evacuate three seriously wounded soldiers from a small fire base which was under attack by a large enemy force. He made the decision with full knowledge that numerous antiaircraft weapons were positioned around the base and that the clear weather would afford the enemy gunners an unobstructed view of all routes into the base. As he approached the base, the enemy gunners opened fire with heavy machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and small arms. Undaunted by the fusillade, he continued his approach determined to accomplish the mission. Displaying tremendous courage under fire, he calmly directed the attacks of supporting gunships while maintaining absolute control of the helicopter he was flying.

He landed the aircraft at the fire base despite the ever-increasing enemy fire and calmly waited until the wounded soldiers were placed on board. As his aircraft departed from the fire base, it was struck and seriously damaged by enemy antiaircraft fire and began descending. Flying with exceptional skill, he immediately regained control of the crippled aircraft and attempted a controlled landing. Despite his valiant efforts, the helicopter exploded, overturned, and plummeted to earth amid the hail of enemy fire. Maj. Adams' conspicuous gallantry, intrepidity, and humanitarian regard for his fellow man were in keeping with the most cherished traditions of the military service and reflected utmost credit on him and the U.S. Army.

Constituent Corner

I know how difficult it can be to navigate the federal government. Recently, my office assisted TyQuasia from Suffolk resolve an issue related to outstanding vouchers within the Defense Travel System (DTS). After she reached out to my office, we were able to lend a helping hand through the casework process and resolve the matter. Thanks for reaching out, TyQuasia...!

If you need assistance with federal agency, my team is here to help. Contact my District Office at (757) 364-7650 or visit my website and my team will be in touch!

Don't forget - if you’d like to stay up to date with what I’m working on, check out my website and follow my Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages (linked below) to stay up to date!

If you or your family are visiting Washington, DC in the coming months, please stop by to say hello!

Take care,

Jen A. Kiggans

Congresswoman, Virginia's Second District

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