Daniel Inouye: “In World War II, 700 merchant marine ships were sunk, and most of them are now resting, hopefully peacefully, at the…”

“In World War II, 700 merchant marine ships were sunk, and most of them are now resting, hopefully peacefully, at the bottom of either the Atlantic Ocean or the Pacific Ocean. When these ships went under nearly 6,000 men, civilians who were carrying military cargo, went down with the ships. The casualties that exceeded 6,000 in World War II was second only to that experienced by the U.S. Marine Corps. There is a difference. This amendment would suggest that merchant mariners should receive the same combat pay as our GI's suggesting that merchant mariners are overpaid for standing in harm's way. Mr. President, as some of my colleagues are aware, I had the great honor of serving my country in uniform. And for serving in harm's way I received combat pay, which was a token amount. I believe at that time it was $10 a month. But we were not in the service for pay purposes. However, at the end of the war because of my injuries I receive a lifetime pension; a very generous one. I have a lifetime privilege of hospitalization and medical care. And that privilege also extends to my dependent, my wife. I received education under the GI bill of rights. And, as a result, I received my law degree and my baccalaureate. I can, if I wish to, purchase goods at the PX, or at the commissary. There are many privileges.…”