Sam Brown Confirmed to Lead VA’s Memorial Affairs Division

The Senate has officially confirmed Army veteran Sam Brown as the new Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), effectively addressing a prolonged backlog of high-level federal nominations.

On Tuesday night, the confirmation of Brown passed with a 54-44 vote, garnering significant backing from Republicans. Notably, two Democrats, Sen. Jacky Rosen and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto from Nevada, broke ranks to endorse the nomination. Rosen emerged victorious over Brown in the 2022 Senate race in Nevada.

Following this confirmation, Brown is set to take charge of the National Cemetery Administration, which is one of three sub-agencies within the VA. This agency is responsible for the maintenance of 155 national cemeteries and the provision of burial benefits to veterans and their families.

Brown expressed his gratitude on social media by writing, "After the Senate confirmed my nomination..." I prayed with my family to thank God for guiding us to this point, I thanked Amy and our kids for supporting my efforts to serve the great USA again… Humbled and honored to give you all my best, again.”

In 2008, a roadside bomb in Afghanistan left Brown, a retired Army captain, with severe injuries, resulting in burns covering 30% of his body. After his medical retirement, he has emerged as a strong advocate for the health and care of veterans related to their service. Despite not winning his Senate campaign in Nevada in 2022, he gained significant recognition on a national level, particularly within conservative veterans' organizations.

The announcement arrives as the Senate accelerates efforts to address an increasing number of presidential nominees ahead of its August break. The role has remained unfilled since 2021, with interim officials stepping in for more than two years.

The National Cemetery Administration is essential in commemorating fallen service members and overseeing the burial eligibility process—responsibilities that numerous lawmakers have indicated require stable leadership for the long term.

Veterans' organizations expressed strong approval of the confirmation, highlighting Brown’s direct military experience and resilience as essential qualifications.

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