San Francisco Supervisor Alan Wong, who also serves as a captain in the California Army National Guard, is taking several legislative initiatives aimed at supporting and recognizing the contributions of veterans ahead of Veterans Day on Wednesday.
Coming on the heels of a reelection win last week, Wong announced Tuesday that he’s introducing a resolution to dedicate November 2026 as “National Veterans and Military Families Month.” He’s also proposing an ordinance to change the name of the city’s Veterans Affairs Council and remove the council’s sunset date.
He wants to change the name of the council back to the “Veterans Affairs Commission” after it was recently altered as one of the many changes recommended by the city’s Commission Streamlining Task Force, which was charged with eliminating, consolidating or modifying the functions of certain city bodies with the goal of boosting efficiency of city government.
The change from “commission” to “council,” Wong said, is more than just a difference in name. “Commission” carries more authority and “places a higher level of gravity for the organization,” he said.
He also wants to get rid of the sunset date for the body, which is set to expire in 2029. The Board of Supervisors also has the ability to extend the sunset date.
“Our commission is more than just an advisory body. We … believe that no veterans should ever be forgotten or left behind. And together with the support of City and County of San Francisco, we continue to make meaningful differences in our lives for our veterans.”
Hanley Chan, Veterans Affairs Council
“This body gives veterans a direct way to bring their concerns to the mayor and the Board of Supervisors. Its members hold hearings, make recommendations, and help city leaders understand where our policies and services can better meet veterans’ needs. That work requires continuity,” Wong said. “Veterans’ needs will continue beyond July 2029. The representation at City Hall should continue too.”
Wong announced the initiatives at a briefing Tuesday on the steps of City Hall with other veterans, members of the council, and nonprofits supporting service members. Supervisors Myrna Melgar and Matt Dorsey also came to show their support as cosponsors of both pieces of legislation.
“Our commission is more than just an advisory body,” said Veterans Affairs Council vice president Hanley Chan in a speech. “We are veterans, advocates, community leaders, and public servants who believe that no veterans should ever be forgotten or left behind. And together with the support of City and County of San Francisco, we continue to make meaningful differences in our lives for our veterans.”
The council also thanked Wong for introducing a resolution recognizing this month as National Veterans and Military Families Month.
“It is a privilege to recognize not only the men and women who have served our nation’s uniform, but also the families who unwavering support being essential part of service,” said San Francisco County Veterans Services Officer Gerardo Carr in a speech. “Their strength, resilience, and dedication is an integral part of our nation’s military story. And today, we honor their contribution as well.”
