Keynote: Peter McCrae says $58 million issued to veterans, highlights homelessness and housing efforts

Peter McCrae, introduced by the event moderator as a U.S. Army veteran, told the audience that the state recently distributed money aimed at veterans and Gold Star families. "Last week, we issued $58,000,000 that go directly to veterans and Gold Star family members directly in their pockets," he said, and described the creation of a secretary for veteran services under the governor and legislature.

McCrae outlined program priorities and concerns. He said Gold Star family members are eligible for a $2,500‑a‑year annuity and emphasized homelessness among veterans, stating from the transcript that "about 8% of the veterans or homeless people in the state are veterans," compared with a national figure he gave as "less than 5%." He also said recent housing efforts have led to housing placements and partnerships with health systems.

The speaker referred to housing progress in brief terms, saying the state "has been able to house over 900" and that a project referred to in the transcript as "Bulldo" "is about to open." The transcript does not clarify the exact meaning of the phrase "over 900 Chelsea's moved in" or provide further identifying detail for "Bulldo"; those items are reported here exactly as spoken in the record.

McCrae also described participating in a ceremony returning the remains of a service member missing in action for more than 75 years, saying he watched public safety professionals and relatives honor the service member. He closed by urging continued work on homelessness, mental health and veterans' care.