Political Quotes

“I come to the floor today saddened by the news of the passing of World War II veteran and Las Vegas resident Augusto Oppus over this past weekend. Mr. Oppus was part of a small community known as the ``Denied Filipino Veterans.'' Born in the Philippines on August 28, 1924, Mr. Oppus entered into military service on behalf of the United States in March of 1945 and was trained as a military policeman. He served in the 12th Military Police Company and was honorably discharged in 1946. While he enjoyed a happy, healthy life following the war, one thing Mr. Oppus did not share with his fellow World War II veterans was full recognition for his service and access to military benefits he had rightfully earned. In February 1946, President Truman signed the Rescission Act of 1946 into law. This bill denied over 200,000 Filipino World War II veterans who served before July 1, 1946, the benefits promised to them 5 years prior by President Franklin Roosevelt. The men who joined prior to July of '46 put their lives on the line for the Allied cause and helped us win the war in the Pacific, yet, due to a technicality, are not afforded the recognition they deserve. With every day that passes, it is estimated that 10 of these forgotten soldiers die having received no answer or recognition of service from our government. Men like Augusto Oppus deserve the recognition and access to benefits they've earned. My district is home to four remaining forgotten Filipino veterans.…”