Veteran caregivers honored as ‘hidden heroes’ this Memorial Day

Author: CBS News
Published:

On this Memorial Day, we honor the sacrifice of those who have served and died for our country. It’s also a time to reflect on those wounded in action and the family members and close friends who care for them.

First Lady Michelle Obama recently honored those hidden heroes, as some in Congress push legislation that would give them more support.

The past three years have been full of joy and heartbreak for Kathleen Causey.

She gave birth to AJ, and her husband, Aaron, a 12-year veteran of the Air Force and Army, returned from Afghanistan without his legs.

The 36-year-old relies on his wife every day.

“None of us would be in the position we’re at if it wasn’t for those people taking care of us,” said Aaron Causey. “Try and say thank you as much as I can but it’ll never be enough.”

Causey’s life drastically changed just a year and a half after she said, “I do.”

“I would literally have nothing, if he hadn’t fought so hard to come home,” said Kathleen Causey.

The first lady recently honored Causey and 70 other “hidden heroes” from across the country. They were also celebrated during an interfaith breakfast on Capitol Hill.

Former Senator Elizabeth Doles’ foundation is pressing lawmakers to pass a bill giving hidden heroes more resources.

Jessica Klein carried her husband, wounded in Afghanistan, out of a fire that destroyed their Maryland home.

“My husband was 32 when he was injured. This is a life-long commitment, and the time is going to come when I also need help.”

Klein is one of an estimated 5 million hidden heroes caring for America’s wounded veterans.

The Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act has not yet received a vote in the House or Senate, despite bipartisan support. It would give caregiver benefits to veterans who served prior to September 11, 2001, and expand the types of veterans who qualify.

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