III 111th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 237 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES August 4, 2009 Mr. Warner submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Armed Services RESOLUTION Commending Blue Star Families for supporting military families and increasing awareness of the unique challenges of military life.

Whereas more than 1,000,000 United States troops have served in ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, including members of the National Guard and Reserve; Whereas the millions of immediate family members of United States servicemembers, including spouses, children, and parents, have contributed and sacrificed as well; Whereas the families of each servicemember contribute vitally to the strength of the United States Armed Forces; Whereas military families, often facing significant challenges such as long separations from loved ones and frequent household moves, are civilians who serve in support of United States servicemembers; Whereas Blue Star Families is an organization of family members of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve members of the Armed Forces serving during war time, and connects military families with civilian communities, increases awareness of the unique challenges of military life, and provides morale and support for military families; and Whereas, in order for military families to continue to support servicemembers during this extended period of conflict, the Senate and people of the United States should support military families: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)recognizes the sacrifices made by Blue Star Families as members of military families and as an organization dedicated to all military families and improving the welfare of the United States; (2)commends the patriotic efforts of Blue Star Families; (3)commends, and offers sincere thanks to, all servicemembers and military families; and (4)urges the people of the United States to acknowledge the inspirational sacrifices of military families.