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Disabled veteran Robert McCann of Windham will help constituents with veterans issues through a 2-year Congressional fellowship program

McCann on patrol in Marjah, Afghanistan, in 2011, using a high-frequency metal detector to search for IEDs.

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree has selected Robert McCann—a former Marine from Windham—to work in her Portland office through the Congressional Wounded Warrior Program.  This 2-year, full-time, paid fellowship is available for veterans who have served since 9/11 and have a 30% or more service-connected disability rating. McCann is a combat veteran who served three tours of duty and, since returning home, has worked extensively to help and support other veterans. 

“In working with Maine veterans—which has always been a top priority for me—it helps to have someone who’s served in uniform. With three tours of duty, Rob certainly has ‘been there’ and brings a number of other skills and experiences that will help him serve my constituents well,” Pingree said.  “He has shown incredible dedication to helping veterans access the resources they need.  I think he will be a great advocate for veterans in my District and their families.”

As a Marine, McCann was an Infantry Company Team Leader, responsible for a 15-person team.  Between 2009 and 2012, he served two tours of duty in Marjah, Afghanistan, and a third deployment on the Iraq-Syria border of Jordan.

In 2012, he founded an organization to raise funds in tribute to fallen veteran PFC Kyle Joseph Coutu.  Since then, he has also worked as a veterans case manager for Preble Street Veteran Housing Services, has helped homeless veterans reintegrate into civilian life as an advocate for Veterans Inc., and serves on the board of the Maine Military Community Network.  

In the Congressional office, McCann will perform outreach to the veterans community; assist veterans, service members, and their families who have issues with federal agencies, such as the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs; and inform Pingree’s work on legislation that deals with veterans and military issues. 

“I’m privileged to have the opportunity to work with Congresswoman Pingree and her staff.  She has been a great advocate for Maine veterans—on an individual and policy level—so I’m excited to be a part of those efforts,” said McCann.  “As a Marine and veteran, I’ve seen the kind of challenges that many service members and veterans face, especially in dealing with a disability.  It’s been very rewarding to apply my experiences to help other veterans, and I look forward to continuing that for the Congresswoman’s constituents.”