When the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) was threatened during and after the 2024 legislative session, Senator DeSteph provided one of the loudest voices in support of the program. In conjunction with Senator Danica Roam (see below), they ensured that veterans voices were heard.  His actions led to his being appointed to the Senate Special Review Committee and to the Governor's Panel to review VMSDEP.  His voice and actions were the strongest during the past year to ensure that legislators, the Governor's staff, and the academic community were aware of the importance of the program to veterans and their families. Senator DeSteph was instrumental in protecting the program we have today. 
From left to right:  Diana Kupchella, Col, USAF, Ret., President of VCOC; Senator Bill DeSteph; Mrs. Helen DeSteph, Senator's wife; John Down, LTC, USA, Ret, JLC Rep