Edward C. Rothstein, Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families secretary, speaks during the department’s “Mission Strong” summit Aug. 8, 2025, at the Gen. Jacob E. Smart Conference Center at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Rothstein, who took over as secretary on Aug. 1, served 30 years in the Army and was the Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, garrison commander from 2011 to 2013. (U.S. Air Force photo by Patrick Griffith)