Blaine Luetkemeyer: “I am proud to rise in support of en bloc amendment number 9 and particularly my amendment, which is included, which…”

“I am proud to rise in support of en bloc amendment number 9 and particularly my amendment, which is included, which directs a review of the service records of eligible Jewish American veterans from World War I. We owe much to the patriotic Americans who have worn and are wearing uniforms of our Nation's Armed Forces. Our country has been blessed to have citizens who have selflessly volunteered to defend our Nation and freedom. Unfortunately, qualified soldiers have not been considered for the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by our government, due to discrimination. In 2001, Congress passed the Leonard Kravitz Jewish War Veterans Act, which had broad bipartisan support. This important piece of legislation presented Jewish soldiers the opportunity to receive the Medal of Honor for their service in World War II. However, Jewish veterans of World War I have faced the same discrimination and have not been afforded the opportunity to receive recognition for their service.”