On the recordOctober 11, 2011
I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, H.R. 1025 recognizes those retired from the National Guard and Reserve component of the United States Armed Forces by honoring them with the status of veterans under law. Representative Walz of Minnesota, the bill's chief sponsor, recently commented that ``failure to recognize those who have served 20 years or more in the Reserve and National Guard as veterans represents a gross injustice.'' These are men and women who showed devotion and dedication, serving their Nation in uniform for an entire career of 20 years or more in the Reserve and National Guard. These servicemembers wore the same uniform as active duty servicemembers, were subject to the same code of military justice, received the same training, and were available for call-up to active duty service at any time. H.R. 1025 confers honorary veteran's status on the individuals who are entitled to retirement pay for nonregular service or who would be entitled to retirement pay but for age. In addition, this bill ensures those who receive the honorary recognition as veterans conferred in the bill would not be entitled to any statutory benefit under title 38 or any other title of United States Code for reason of such recognition alone. I would now like to yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Latham).
