Protecting those who protect us
Every year at the end of May, many Americans all across our country take advantage of a long weekend by loading up their cars and heading to the beach, attending a family gathering or simply relaxing at home while watching the races in Indianapolis and Charlotte. Often times it seems, in the midst of the weekend’s celebrations, we forget that Memorial Day Weekend is really meant to be a time for us all to come together and remember America’s fallen heroes, who have given their lives while serving in our military.
We owe so much to our military service members who often put their lives in harm’s way to protect the freedom and liberty we enjoy here at home. Without a doubt, these brave men and women truly understand the meaning of self-sacrifice. They are some of our nation’s greatest heroes and we owe them an immeasurable amount of gratitude.
As a physician in both a Veteran’s Administration Hospital and in private practice, I’ve had the privilege of treating numerous veterans throughout my years of practicing medicine. Additionally, my mother was a registered nurse for over 44 years at Fort Meade Veterans Hospital. I know first-hand what an honor it is to be able to give something back to those that have given us so much.
I was pleased that the House of Representatives came together this week in a bipartisan manner to affirm America’s commitment to our veterans by passing four pieces of legislation that will help and honor veterans of all generations.
Restoring the GI Bill Fairness Act of 2011 (H.R. 1383), which was passed by a vote of 389-0, fixes the Post-9/11 GI Bill and ensures that all student veterans will be able to attend the school of their choice.
H.R. 1627, which was passed 380-0, preserves the integrity of Arlington National Cemetery by establishing a new process for the placement of monuments at Arlington and enforcing the reservation process. I was particularly proud to vote for this piece of legislation. Upon arriving to Washington as a Member of the House of Representatives, my first visit was to Arlington Cemetery to say thank you to those that have made the ultimate sacrifice. Arlington Cemetery is truly hallowed ground and a national treasure.
H.R. 1407, which was passed unanimously by a voice vote, reissues the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment for veterans and survivors.
Finally, we passed H.R. 1657, a bill that imposes penalties for small businesses falsely claiming veteran-owned status. This bill passed 382-1.
These pieces of legislation will safeguard those who have served this country and guarantee that America keeps its promises to our veterans. While Washington D.C. is all too often marked by contention and political posturing, I was glad to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle unite to protect our veterans.