[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 82 (Thursday, June 10, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1223]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                REAFFIRM OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR VETERANS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN E. SWEENEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 10, 1999

  Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 
1401, the bill to authorize our all-important national defense programs 
and in support of the en bloc amendment which includes language that 
addresses a crisis in our veterans community.
  Throughout their lives, the men and women of our armed services make 
great sacrifices in the service of our country. Yet, many families 
requesting honor guards at the burials of veterans are being told 
``NO''--that we do not have the resources to honor those who have 
served so nobly. As Americans, the very least we can do is make sure 
that our veterans are given a proper burial when they die.
  My amendment strengthens the current language in the bill by 
requiring, not just permitting, the Secretary of Defense to provide 
necessary materials, equipment, and training to support non-
governmental organizations--namely our VFW, Disabled American Veterans, 
American Legion, and other veterans groups--in providing honor guard 
services.
  Mr. Speaker, the newest of our National Cemeteries, Saratoga National 
Cemetery, will be opening in the heart of my district this July and 
will conduct funerals every thirty minutes for the next several years. 
Our active duty and reserve servicemen and women cannot keep up. Mr. 
Speaker--this is unacceptable!
  Everyone who served in the armed forces gave something. Some who 
served gave everything. And we have a responsibility to give back!
  Our veterans are eager to fill this void on a volunteer basis, but 
they do not possess the resources to do so. The committee bill will 
give private individuals the tools necessary to provide honor guard 
services, thereby reducing the demand on active duty servicemen or 
reservists.
  I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and reaffirm our 
commitment to our veterans.

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