IV 112th CONGRESS 2d Session H. CON. RES. 138 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES September 20, 2012 Mr. Bachus (for himself and Ms. Sewell) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned CONCURRENT RESOLUTION Recognizing Birmingham, Alabama, as the home to the first and longest running celebration of Veterans Day.

Whereas November 11, 2012, is the 65th anniversary of National Veterans Day in Birmingham, Alabama; Whereas the National Veterans Day in Birmingham is the longest running celebration of Veterans Day in the United States; Whereas, on November 11, 1946, World War II veteran Raymond Weeks presented General Eisenhower a program design proposing replacing Armistice Day with a National Veterans Day 1947; Whereas the very first Veterans Day celebration was held in Birmingham by the National Veterans Day organization in 1947; Whereas President Eisenhower signed into law on June 1, 1954 the Act proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day (Public Law 83–380); Whereas, in 1954, the National Veterans Day volunteer organization, started by Raymond Weeks, expanded to organize a multiday celebration including, a Veterans Day Parade, a World Peace Luncheon, and presentation during the National Veterans Award Dinner of the National Veterans Award; Whereas these three events have been held every year since 1954; Whereas the briefing for President Reagan by Elizabeth Dole for the Presidential Citizens Medals cited Raymond Weeks as the Father of Veterans Day; Whereas President Reagan recognized Raymond Weeks as the driving force behind Veterans Day while presenting Mr. Weeks with the Presidential Citizens Medal on November 11, 1982; Whereas Raymond Weeks should be recognized for his push to honor the great men and women who have served their country with a special day of recognition; and Whereas Birmingham, Alabama, should be recognized for its contributions to the institution of Veterans Day: Now, therefore, be it

That Congress hereby— (1)recognizes Birmingham, Alabama, as the home to the first and longest running celebration of Veterans Day; (2)recognizes Raymond Weeks for his pioneering efforts in the establishment of Veterans Day; and (3)honors the sacrifices and pays tribute to the men and women in uniform who are risking life and limb at home and overseas.