The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) is a public organization provided by the government. The organization's funding is produced through taxes. The agency's executive branch is located in Washington DC and is headed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. There are Veterans Affairs offices located in all 50 states, including American Samoa, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. It ranks second in the US federal department with over 200,000 employees. Veteran assistance originally began in the 1600s, when the colony passed laws that soldiers who became disabled while fighting with the Pequot Indians would be supported by the colony. The DVA was established as a Cabinet-level position under the Bush Administration in 1989. The agency's mission is based on a statement of commitment developed by President Lincoln, which commits the organization to excellence. The DVA provides the highest quality ensuring that all veterans and families receive the care and support they deserve through a people-centred and results-oriented approach...