[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 44 (Wednesday, April 20, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: April 20, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
       TRIBUTE TO SALEM, IL: BIRTHPLACE OF THE GI BILL OF RIGHTS

                                 ______


                         HON. RICHARD J. DURBIN

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 20, 1994

  Mr. DURBIN. Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago on June 18th the United States 
recognized the contribution of the men and women who served in our 
Armed Forces by establishing the GI Bill of Rights. I am proud to 
represent the birthplace of that concept: Salem, IL.
  On November 4, 1943 an American Legion banquet brought Legion members 
from across Illinois to Salem, the county seat of Marion County. After 
the banquet, a group of veterans discussed the problems facing 
servicemen returning from the military.
  Servicemen across the country recognized the challenges facing 
returning veterans. This group of Legionnaires in Salem, however, 
transformed their discussion into a comprehensive idea: a bill of 
rights. This plan would include education; job training; home, farm, 
and business loans; special training for the disabled; and much more. 
It would eventually become the most comprehensive piece of legislation 
ever written for America's veterans.
  The GI Bill and subsequent veteran's compensation legislation has 
helped to educate 7.8 million veterans, helped 14 million buy homes, 
and enabled countless Americans to get back on their feet after 
returning from military service.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating Salem 
for its role in this remarkable achievement. The GI Bill is yet another 
example of the outstanding contribution Salem, IL has made to the 
history of our Nation.

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