On June 6, 2025, the 81st anniversary of D-Day, thousands of U.S. military veterans led coordinated protests across all 50 states, including a major rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Organized by the Chamberlain Network and allied advocacy groups, the demonstrations aimed to oppose significant staffing and budget cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and to reaffirm the importance of democratic values in American life.
The largest demonstration took place in Washington, D.C., where veterans from across the nation gathered in solidarity. Holding signs that read “Defend Democracy” and “Veterans Against Fascism,” they voiced concerns over what they see as increasing authoritarian tendencies in U.S. politics and the erosion of the rights and services promised to those who served. The symbolism of protesting on D-Day was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made to defend freedom.
Chris Purdy, CEO of the Chamberlain Network, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the movement’s nonpartisan stance. He noted that the demonstration was not against any one political figure or party, but rather a collective appeal to protect democratic institutions and support those who risked their lives in service of the nation. “This is a grassroots movement,” he declared. “We are here to ensure that our leaders remember the values that built this country.”
The urgency behind the protest stemmed from recent federal budget proposals that include a 15 percent cut to VA staffing, potentially eliminating more than 80,000 positions. Critics argue such cuts would severely impair access to health care and benefits for veterans, particularly those in underserved and rural areas. Veterans and their families fear that the consequences of these cuts could be devastating, leading to longer wait times, reduced services, and deteriorating conditions at VA facilities.
Many in attendance shared personal stories of how VA services had impacted their lives. Reed Radcliffe, a 68-year-old Navy veteran from St. Louis, described the lifesaving care he received for service-related injuries. “Without the VA, I wouldn’t be standing here today,” he said. “Cutting these services is a betrayal of every promise made to us.”
Another attendee, Stephanie Schroeder, a Marine veteran and advocate for women’s veterans’ issues, spoke emotionally about the dedicated VA employees facing layoffs. She recounted how she had comforted VA workers who were brought to tears by the prospect of losing their jobs. “These people are the backbone of the care system for our veterans,” she said. “They deserve support, not pink slips.”
In addition to the flagship rally in D.C., similar demonstrations unfolded in state capitals and small towns nationwide. In places like Huron County, Michigan, and Orem, Utah, community members turned out in support of their local veterans, organizing donation drives, candlelight vigils, and peaceful marches. These grassroots efforts underscored the nationwide resonance of the cause and demonstrated a unified front in the face of adversity.
The movement has drawn support from a broad coalition, including veterans’ organizations, civil rights groups, and civic-minded individuals concerned about the nation’s democratic trajectory. Organizers stressed that their goals extend beyond just the VA budget; they are also advocating for the protection of voting rights, rule of law, and the constitutional principles that underpin the United States.
The date of the protest held deep historical significance. D-Day marked a turning point in World War II, a conflict in which countless Americans gave their lives to combat tyranny. By rallying on this anniversary, veterans sought to draw a direct line between past sacrifices and present challenges, reminding the public and elected officials of the cost of complacency.
The Chamberlain Network has indicated that this is only the beginning. With the momentum from these nationwide rallies, the organization plans to engage lawmakers, launch public awareness campaigns, and mobilize further action in the coming months. Their message is clear: the defense of democracy and the honoring of veterans’ sacrifices must remain at the forefront of national priorities.
As the sun set on June 6, the sight of veterans standing in unity—some in wheelchairs, others in full dress uniforms—left an indelible impression. Their call for dignity, justice, and democracy echoed far beyond the National Mall, resonating in every corner of the nation.