Leo Shane

The group expects to add its 200,000th member later this year, which is the organization's 20th anniversary.

The original deadline was extended by several days because of technical issues with the Department of Veterans Affairs claims systems.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday retired on Monday with his replacement's confirmation stalled in an ongoing political fight.

Leaders say they still need more staff to keep up with patient demands.

Advocates worry that Congress may never pass reforms needed to help Afghan allies safely escape the Taliban and resettle in America.

Members of the House Freedom Caucus are demanding changes in Pentagon training and programs in exchange for their support of a budget deal.

The technology is already in use at 120 VA sites across all 50 states.

Officials said about 32,000 veterans were affected by the mistake.

Despite one senator's hold on 300-plus confirmations, Democratic leaders could advance some nominees individually.

That puts the department on pace to top its goal of 38,000 veterans aided by the end of December.