Hegseth said in a new memo the move was informed by a "comprehensive internal review" that identified nonessential personnel within the office.
Advocates hope to restart momentum in Congress this year on the Major Richard Star Act.
Congress last year passed legislation designed to simplify the process for veterans seeking medical help outside the VA health care system.
Upgrading a Qatar-donated 747 into a new Air Force One would take a large sum of money and years to complete, aviation experts said.
