Hello Friends!

This week in Virginia’s Second District, we focused on honoring the sacrifices of our servicemembers, supporting innovation, and investing in the future of our Commonwealth.

We also celebrated opportunities for the next generation in STEM and aerospace, from the ribbon cutting for RocketLab’s Launch Complex 3 at NASA Wallops to the opening of the Aerospace Academy of the Eastern Shore. I’m proud to share these updates and the important steps we are taking to keep Virginia’s Second District safe, prosperous, and prepared for the future.

Now, onto my Weekly Debrief!

Four Years Since the Tragedy at Abbey Gate...

On Tuesday, we honored the 13 servicemembers who were killed at Abbey Gate during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan on this day in 2021.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza

Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Christian Knauss

Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page

Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario

Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz

Navy Petty Officer Third Class Maxton W. Soviak.

We will never forget their service, their sacrifice, or the families who carry their memory.

Fighting for Affordable, Reliable Energy in the Commonwealth



On Wednesday, I joined Americans for Prosperity to discuss the future of energy here in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Representing #VA02—home to thousands of military families, shipbuilders, and defense workers—I know firsthand that reliable, affordable energy isn’t just an economic issue…it’s a national security priority. We must ensure Virginians have access to affordable, reliable, all-of-the-above energy solutions…!

Women’s Leadership Forum: Inspiring the Next Generation

Last week, we partnered with the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) at the Women’s Leadership Forum in Richmond. It was inspiring to connect with so many women leaders from throughout the Commonwealth. Thank you to the Virginia Chamber for bringing us all together for an afternoon!

Keeping Coastal Virginia’s Beaches Safe

Last week, I introduced the Safe Beaches, Safe Swimmers Act to ensure that our federal beaches are fully staffed with lifeguards throughout the summer! This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to work with local governments to ensure there is proper lifeguard coverage in the event of a shortage. As the representative for Coastal Virginia, it's my job to ensure my constituents and visitors on our federal lands remain safe.

Read my full press release here.

Working to Protect Military Families’ Access to Care

On Monday, I hosted a roundtable with medical providers, including hospitals and medical clinics, and Humana to discuss TRICARE reimbursement delays. The last thing our military families and servicemembers need when facing health issues is to be concerned about whether their bills will get paid. This roundtable was about learning from what went wrong and building safeguards so it doesn’t happen again. We owe it to military families and providers to make sure future transitions are seamless.

Shaping America’s Future in Aerospace and STEM

On Thursday, I joined Eastern Shore Radio to highlight the incredible advancements in aerospace happening right here on the Eastern Shore. From exciting new opportunities in STEM education to the development of next-generation rockets, I’m proud to see the Commonwealth leading the way in shaping the future of this critical industry. Virginia continues to play a vital role in driving innovation, strengthening our economy, and keeping America competitive on the world stage.

Listen 👇

Celebrating RocketLab’s New Launch Complex on the Eastern Shore...!

We were back on the Eastern Shore at NASA Wallops Flight Facility on Thursday to celebrate the ribbon cutting of RocketLab’s Launch Complex 3…! This investment not only reinforces America’s position as leading the world in the commercial space industry, but also highlights the important role the Commonwealth plays in shaping the future of aerospace and defense. Excited to watch launches from this site in the near future!! 🚀

Read Governor Youngkin's Press Release here.

Investing in the Next Generation of Aerospace Leaders

Thrilled to join Governor Youngkin for the ribbon cutting of the Aerospace Academy of the Eastern Shore…! As Co-Chair of the Women in STEM Caucus, I know how critical STEM education is for innovation, our economy, and America’s competitiveness. This Academy will inspire students, provide mentorship, and prepare the next generation of aerospace and technology leaders right here in the Commonwealth of Virginia…!

Advancing an All-of-the-Above Energy Strategy

On Friday, I joined local leaders, stakeholders, and Conservatives for Clean Energy for a Clean Energy Roundtable! I’ll continue advocating for an all-of-the-above energy strategy that keeps costs low, strengthens reliability, and secures America’s future. Affordable, reliable energy is not just an economic issue—it’s a national security priority for Virginia's Second District...!

Celebrating Ukrainian Independence in Virginia Beach...!

On Sunday, I joined our Ukrainian-American community in Virginia Beach to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day. I’m grateful for the vibrant contributions of the Ukrainian people here in #VA02 and across our country. As we mark this important day, I remain committed to standing with our Ukrainian friends and allies in the face of Russian aggression. 🇺🇦🇺🇸

Curtiss-Wright: Driving Innovation in #VA02

On Wednesday, I toured the Curtiss-Wright Corporation’s Service Center in Chesapeake, a leader in defense manufacturing and commercial aerospace engineering that also supports our U.S. Navy’s Nuclear Fleet. Companies like Curtiss-Wright play a vital role in preserving America’s national security, and I’m proud to see this kind of innovation and cutting-edge defense work happening right here in Virginia's Second District…!

Schedule a D.C. Tour Through My Office..!

Now is a great time to come up to D.C. for a tour of our nation's historic capital! We can assist in scheduling tours of some of Washington’s most iconic landmarks, including:

• The U.S. Capitol
• The White House*: (The White House has announced they have suspended tours for the months of September and October).
• The Library of Congress
• The Supreme Court
• The FBI

Many of these tours fill up weeks in advance, so I encourage you to reach out early. My team is here to help you and your family enjoy a memorable, meaningful experience in D.C.

👉 To request a tour click here.

We’re proud to represent you—and even prouder to help you experience the history, beauty, and significance of Washington, D.C. firsthand!

Weekly Poll

Last week, I asked whether you believe Members of Congress should be prohibited from owning or trading stocks. With over 1,400 responses, the results were clear: 82% of you said YES, 11% said NO, and 6% were unsure.

I couldn’t agree more. When it comes to trading stocks, Members of Congress must be above reproach. That’s why I co-led the bipartisan Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks (ETHICS) Act, which would prohibit Members of Congress—as well as their spouses and dependent children—from owning or trading individual stocks, securities, or commodities. Instead, Members would be required to divest or place assets in a Qualified Blind Trust, with strong penalties for violations.

At a time when trust in Congress is low, this legislation is an important step toward restoring confidence in our institutions. Americans deserve to know their elected representatives are working for the public good—not personal gain. I’m proud to work across the aisle to advance this landmark bill and will continue fighting to make Congress more accountable to the people we serve.

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

Medal of Honor Recipient of the Week

This week, I would like to honor Medal of Honor Recipient Staff Sergeant Leroy Arthur Petry of the United States Army (Medal of Honor action date: May 26, 2008).

Leroy A. Petry was born on July 29, 1979 in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Petry enlisted in September of 1999. When the September 11th attacks took place, Petry was training to become a Ranger. Upon finishing his training, Petry was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Petry ended up deploying eight separate times, twice supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and six supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

On May 26, 2008, Staff Sergeant Petry was serving as a Weapons Squad Leader with D Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Staff Sergeant Petry moved to clear the courtyard of a house that potentially contained high-value combatants. While crossing the courtyard, Staff Sergeant Petry and another Ranger were engaged and wounded by automatic weapons fire from enemy fighters. Still under enemy fire, and wounded in both legs, Staff Sergeant Petry led the other Ranger to cover. 

The enemy quickly responded by maneuvering closer and throwing grenades. The first grenade explosion knocked his two fellow Rangers to the ground and wounded both with shrapnel. A second grenade then landed only a few feet away from them. Instantly realizing the danger, Staff Sergeant Petry, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his safety, selflessly moved forward, picked up the grenade, and in an effort to clear the immediate threat, threw the grenade away from his fellow Rangers. As he was releasing the grenade it detonated, amputating his right hand at the wrist and further injuring him with multiple shrapnel wounds. His gallant act undeniably saved his fellow Rangers from being severely wounded or killed. 

After recovering from his injuries, using a prosthetic instead of his right hand, Staff Sergeant Petry instead deployed back to Afghanistan. Petry was promoted to the rank of Sergeant First Class during this time. On July 12, 2011, Sergeant First Class Leroy A. Petry was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama. SFC. Petry continued to serve before officially retiring from the Army as a Master Sergeant on July 29, 2014. Petry has continued to work with veterans and their families, while also involving himself with behavioral medicine and motivational speaking on college campuses.

Constituent Corner

I know how difficult it can be to navigate the federal government. Recently, my office assisted Jerome from Chesapeake in resolving an issue with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). After he reached out to my office, we were able to lend a helping hand through the casework process. Thanks for reaching out, Jerome...!

If you need assistance with a 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 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

If you are not currently subscribed to the Weekly Debrief, you can subscribe below.