[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 39 (Tuesday, March 31, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E527]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING OUR DESERVING VETERANS

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                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 31, 1998

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to identify an inequity that 
has gone unresolved for too long. This inequity currently exists in the 
process of honoring our veterans in the Navy and Marine Corps who 
served our nation from 1943 to 1961. These proud men and women deserve 
to be recognized in the same fashion as their counterparts in the other 
service branches.
  The Navy Combat Action Ribbon is awarded to Navy and Marine Corps 
personnel based upon active participation in ground or surface combat 
beginning March 1, 1961. The equivalent Army award, the Combat Infantry 
Badge, has been given to Army personnel since July 4, 1943. Why should 
this unfair discrepancy stand?
  H.R. 543, a bill introduced by Rep. Michael McNulty, would erase the 
imbalance between the eligibility date requirements of the Navy Combat 
Action Ribbon and its counterparts in the other service branches. H.R. 
543 provides for an award of the Navy Combat Action Ribbon to Navy and 
Marine Corps personnel during the period between July 4, 1943, and 
March 1, 1961.
  Mr. Speaker, I believe we must pass H.R. 543 to correct the 
inequality in how we honor our veterans. As the current award process 
stands a large segment of the veterans' population is being excluded 
from proper recognition for the dedication and sacrifice they proudly 
made for our country. By passing H.R. 543 we would rightfully honor 
those who bravely served our nation.




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