[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 161 (Monday, December 15, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2418]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     VETERANS' BENEFITS ACT OF 1997

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                               speech of

                           HON. GLENN POSHARD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Sunday, November 9, 1997

  Mr. POSHARD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my strong support 
for House passage of S. 714, as amended. This bill, much of which was 
approved by the House earlier in the session, contains several 
provisions of great importance to America's veterans. Foremost among 
these is a 4-year extension of the Native American Veteran Housing Loan 
Pilot Program, created in 1992, which authorizes the Veterans' 
Administration to make direct home loans to native American veterans 
living on Indian trust lands. This program eliminated many of the 
barriers so often encountered by native Americans seeking financing for 
homeownership, and a 4-year extension will allow the program's success 
to continue, to the benefit of increasing numbers of native American 
veterans.
  As a veteran, I certainly recognize the indispensable contributions 
that America's veterans have made in selfless dedication to their 
country. The Native American Veteran Housing Loan Pilot Program is one 
significant way in which Congress can express its gratitude for the 
exceptional service demonstrated by native American veterans, and 
indeed by all of our Nation's military personnel. With the approach of 
Veterans' Day, when we remember the millions who have served this 
country as members of the Armed Forces, I urge my colleagues to vote in 
favor of this legislation, and I applaud the Veterans Affairs Committee 
for its recognition of the continuing importance of this program.

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