[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 27 (Friday, February 14, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE GREATER BEACHES VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST 3270 ON 
                         THEIR 75TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ANDER CRENSHAW

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 14, 2014

  Mr. CRENSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th 
anniversary of the Greater Beaches Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3270.
   Created in 1939, Post 3270 is Jacksonville's oldest continuous 
veterans organization. The First Coast is honored to have such a 
commendable organization that is committed to serving veterans, 
military families, and their communities.
   The Veterans of Foreign War can trace its roots back to 1898, when 
the veterans of the Spanish American War and the veterans of the 
Philippine Insurrection joined forces and founded local organizations 
to secure rights and benefits for their members who returned wounded 
and sick after serving their country. At a time when there was no 
medical care or pensions, our country's heroes were often left to fend 
for themselves. As such, these individuals were compelled to do 
something about it. Taking matters into their own hands, they banded 
together to form what is now known as the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States. Starting out with only three chapters, the Veterans 
of Foreign War continued to grow over the years with more than 
2,000,000 members today. They have been instrumental in establishing 
the Veteran's Administration, creating the GI Bill for the 20th 
century, and developing a National Cemetery system.
   I am honored to have such brave men and women in the 4th 
Congressional District of Florida. Not only have they served their 
country abroad, but they continue to serve their communities at home. 
Such service deserves praise and I wish them many more years of 
success. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and Members of the House to join me in 
this very special congressional salute honoring the Greater Beaches 
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3270.

                          ____________________