May 14, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas, CA) voted this week to honor the contributions of our U.S. Military Forces and provide long overdue benefits to Merchant Mariners who served in World War II.  Today, Dreier voted for H.Res. 377 to recognize the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces and their families on Armed Forces Day, May 16.  On Wednesday, Dreier supported H.Con.Res. 84, to honor the goals of National Military Appreciation month, May 2009. On Tuesday, Dreier supported H.R. 23, the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act. All three measures were approved unanimously.

“I am proud to support our military personnel and their tireless dedication, determination, and professionalism in times of peace and conflict.”  Dreier said.  “Our armed service members and their families have made incredible sacrifices to safeguard our nation, and for that, we are eternally grateful.”

Armed Forces Day was established in 1949 during the consolidation of the military services in the Department of Defense.  The event is celebrated annually on the third Saturday in May, which this year is May 16.  National Military Appreciation Month, also in May, was first established in 1999 to honor the commitment and sacrifice of our military personnel and their families to safeguard our country.

Dreier continued, “Merchant Mariners provided an incredibly important and dangerous service to our country during World War II, transporting personnel, equipment and food to the front lines of battle.  Unfortunately, for years they were not afforded veterans’ benefits.  This bill recognizes the contributions of these veterans, and provides them with long-overdue compensation.”

While other members of the armed forces received benefits after World War II under the GI Bill, such as education assistance and health care, Merchant Mariners were not eligible for the program.  H.R. 23 would establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide a $1,000 monthly benefit to eligible Merchant Marines who served in World War II.