Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, the present-day Veterans of Foreign Wars organization traces its origin to 1899 when two organizations were founded to achieve benefits and recognition for United States veterans of the Spanish-American War. These veterans were committed to ensuring that their efforts in that conflict were recognized, honored, and respected by their government. As the United States became involved in later foreign conflicts, the number of members of the VFW grew. The VFW received its congressional charter in 1936. Currently, there are 2.3 million members of the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary. Efforts by the VFW were instrumental in establishing a Department of Veterans Affairs, the GI Bill, the national cemetery system, and assisting combat-wounded veterans to receive compensation for their injuries. In recognition of their achievements in peacetime and the role of its members in wartime, I would ask that my colleagues honor the VFW and declare a Veterans of Foreign Wars Day. I urge my colleagues to join in supporting House Resolution 663.”