[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 178 (Thursday, December 20, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2399]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E2399]]
                 LIVING AMERICAN HERO APPRECIATION ACT

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                               speech of

                            HON. LANE EVANS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 19, 2001

  Mr. EVANS. Madam Speaker, the remarks that I made in support of H.R. 
2561 were made in the context of the measure as it was originally 
introduced by my colleague, the gentleman from Pennsylvania, Curt 
Weldon. The measure passed by the House under suspension of the rules, 
however, was an amended version of H.R. 2561. As amended, H.R. 2561 did 
not embody certain provisions that had been included in the original 
bill.
  With regard to H.R. 2561 as amended, I want to express my strong 
support for this legislation that demonstrates our continued commitment 
to recipients of the Medal of Honor. In the name of the Congress, the 
President presents the Medal of Honor. It is the highest honor that can 
be bestowed upon any American citizen. Only 3,455 Americans have been 
awarded Medals of Honor, and today only 149 of them are living.
  As the Ranking Democrat on the Veterans' Affairs Committee, as a 
senior member of the Armed Services Committee, and as a United States 
Marine, I feel strongly that these heroes deserve special recognition 
and consideration. Their valiant contributions must be honored and 
supported by all Americans.
  Accordingly, I am pleased that H.R. 2561 would increase from $600 to 
$1,000 the monthly amount paid to recipients of the Medal of Honor and 
provide for retroactive, lump-sum payments to such recipients to 
reflect this increase. In addition, the bill would provide an 
additional medal for use in display or exhibits to those recipients who 
desire one, and increase the criminal penalties associated with the 
unauthorized purchase or possession of a Medal, or with the false 
representation of its awarding.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to be an original cosponsor of H.R. 2561 
and I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in supporting our Medal of 
Honor recipients.

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