[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 62 (Tuesday, May 7, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S4809]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     COMMEMORATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JEWISH WAR VETERANS

 Mr. BRADLEY. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the Jewish 
War Veterans in the year of the organization's 100th anniversary, and 
to pay tribute to the members of their faith who have fought and died 
in the service of their country.
  The JWV is the oldest active veteran's group in the United States. 
Founded by veterans of the Civil War, the first members pledged to 
combat the powers of bigotry whatever the target, and to assist 
comrades and their families in need. They also pledged to gather and 
preserve the records of patriotic service performed by members of the 
Jewish faith. In the 100 years following, the JWV has been a crucial 
force in documenting the contribution Jews have made to America's 
military.
  From the American Revolution to the Persian Gulf war, hundreds of 
thousands of Jewish-Americans have fought bravely in defense of our 
Nation and its democratic ideals.
  The JWV has also made important contributions to the lives of their 
fellow Americans at peace. Its members have been leaders in the fight 
against racism and anti-Semitism in this country, and have used the 
strength of their organization to improve the care and well-being of 
veterans of all denominations.
  Today the Jewish War Veterans continue to do important work in 
communities throughout the Nation. Members volunteer their services to 
assist disabled and hospitalized veterans of all races and religions, 
and serve the community through education programs and scholarships. 
They have assisted Americans young and old, Jewish and non-Jewish. I am 
proud that so many members of the JWV live in my home State of New 
Jersey, and I congratulate them on their centennial anniversary.

                          ____________________