Sen. Murkowski Comments on the Passing of Maurice “Mo” Bailey
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, today issued the following statement upon learning of the passing of Maurice “Mo” Bailey, founder of Veterans Aviation Outreach, president of Vietnam Veterans of America Mat-Su Chapter 903 and 2007 recipient of the Alaska Governor's Veterans Advocacy Award:
“I am profoundly saddened by the loss of my dear friend, Maurice “Mo” Bailey, who will long be remembered as one of Alaska’s most significant veterans’ leaders. Mo reminded us through his daily life how one person can truly make a difference in the lives of others. His was a life of service, humility and grace. A disabled veteran who battled the VA bureaucracy to obtain the benefits he earned through his service in Vietnam, he gave his all to ensure that Alaska’s rural veterans could overcome vast geographic challenges and obtain their earned benefits. The Veterans Aviation Outreach, which Mo founded with fellow veterans, created a lifeline through which rural veterans could apply for their benefits, obtain transportation to Anchorage for medical appointments and network with fellow veterans, which is so important to healing the emotional wounds of war. This is critically important work that must continue. There is little doubt in my mind that Mo’s selfless sacrifice on behalf of Alaska’s rural veterans will inspire others to ensure that this vital lifeline for rural Alaska’s veterans is not lost.”
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