Louie Gohmert: “The Blue Star Mothers of America was established during World War II and federally chartered in 1960. The organization's…”

“The Blue Star Mothers of America was established during World War II and federally chartered in 1960. The organization's 5,000 members and 225 chapters provide support for our men and women in uniform and assist veterans' organizations. According to their charter, the Blue Star Mothers also care for unsupported mothers. Membership in the Blue Star Mothers is open to a mother, an adoptive mother or stepmother who lives in the U.S. of a child who serves in the Armed Forces or has served in the Armed Forces during World War II or the Korean War. Wendy Hoffman, the national president of the Blue Star Mothers, has sent a letter to the committee and requests that their charter be amended consistent with the resolution passed at their national convention. She stated the following: ``As mothers of American servicemembers and veterans, we recognize changing family dynamics and have found it extremely important to include other `mothers' who have played a part in raising military heroes and also those mothers who are not residents of the U.S.'' The Blue Star Mothers have also opened membership to mothers of children who have served in the military at any time. This bill makes the changes to the charter requested by the Blue Star Mothers. Our colleague Scott Tipton introduced the House version of the bill, H.R. 2815, and the Judiciary Committee approved Mr. Tipton's bill by voice vote.…”