During a special event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the GI Bill, National Association of REALTORS® President John Smaby praised the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

“It is . . . unbelievable what this bill does for our economy and what it means to REALTORS® across the country,” said Smaby. “There is no greater day for the agents in my office than when we see a veteran come through our doors after buying a home.”

Also during the event, the VA loan program issued its 24 millionth home loan to Army Sgt. 1st Class William Kopf, an Active Guard Reserve Soldier, who relocated from Utah to northeastern Pennsylvania. Two REALTORS® were recognized for helping to make the transaction possible.

“When you ‘re deployed, you’re not thinking about your next life steps; you’re not worried about a loan, you’re not worried about a home. You’re worried about that day’s mission and the wellbeing of the troops,” Kopf said. “But when you are (back home) and you’re trying to make that transition to the next part of your life, that’s where the VA comes in – and that’s where you need them the most. Knowing the VA has our back and that we can enjoy the American Dream is absolutely something special, and it’s been a relief to my family.”

Read more about Smaby, Kopf and HUD Secretary Ben Carson’s keynote address.