Former Georgia Congressman, Doug Collins, had his confirmation hearing on Tuesday morning in his bid to be the next Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

While I wish more eyeballs had been on the important discussion to help my fellow veterans during this critical time, Collins was prepared and demonstrated he’s got the “fire” and the vision to fix a VA that has watched homelessness and suicides go up in the last few years.

As a veteran who struggled mightily in recent times, I can tell you that I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do.

Here are a couple of reasons I’m optimistic of the Doug Collins era at the VA.

An “Airport Handoff” of transitioning services into civilian life: This moment in the hearing from Collins got an audible approval from me while I was watching. Poor transition services hurt me, and they continue to hurt the men and women who exit the service unprepared for what could be the most important period of their lives. Closing the window during the handoff could save lives and keep us housed.

Ensuring a more disciplined VA workforce: While there are some truly exceptional people in the Department of Veterans Affairs, there are quite a few workers who capitalize on the red tape which protects them from not showing up for work. Collins would be boosting the efficiency of the department by simply weeding out those who don’t want to do what they were hired to do.

Having a veteran who is motivated to make a difference back in the position again: The outgoing VA Secretary was not a veteran. And it showed. He elevated other non veterans in the department and put them in charge of important facilities. If they’re not one of us and don’t understand us, why would they be effective in helping us? Having someone who has walked in our boots, with a personal understanding of how all of this works, will make a tremendous difference.

Doug Collins should be confirmed as the next Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

What do you think? Let me know in the comments.