[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 86 (Thursday, May 18, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E669]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





               JOHNSON & JOHNSON'S COMMITMENT TO VETERANS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. DONALD M. PAYNE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 18, 2017

  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share with my colleagues a 
story of a corporate leader whose commitment to our nation's veterans 
is unmatched. Under the leadership of Alex Gorsky as CEO, Johnson and 
Johnson's commitment to providing the highest quality medical products 
is only matched by the firm's efforts to provide for the military 
service members it employs.
   Johnson & Johnson's long history of supporting military service 
members began as early as the Spanish-American War. Beginning in 1898, 
Johnson & Johnson began retaining positions and paying salaries to 
employees during military service. For the past century, Johnson & 
Johnson has been at the cutting edge of developing initiatives to cater 
to the unique needs of military service members and veterans. Alex 
Gorsky has doubled down on this impressive record with an unwavering 
dedication to continuing these traditions for those who have served our 
nation.
   Under Gorsky's leadership, Johnson & Johnson continues to make 
groundbreaking strides in support of those who have served with 
initiatives like the Johnson & Johnson Veterans Leadership Council 
(VLC). The VLC provides for the company's retired service members in an 
unprecedented manner by supporting the health care and recovery needs 
of our American heroes in 26 chapters across 11 states.
   I was particularly impressed to learn of Johnson & Johnson's 
Enhanced Military Leave Policy, also instituted by Mr. Gorsky, which 
enables active service members to defend our nation without fear of job 
instability, falling behind on bills, or being overlooked during the 
transition period back at work. I've learned that Mr. Gorsky's own 
distinguished military career has given him insight into the inherent 
value of hiring active and retired military service members. A graduate 
of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Alex previously 
served as a U.S. Army Ranger and finished his career with the rank of 
Captain. Given his commendable service and past experience, Mr. Gorsky 
recognizes the importance of hiring veterans as they bring invaluable 
contributions to the workplace like discipline, integrity, critical 
thinking, and leadership skills.
   Johnson & Johnson's military support is not just good corporate 
culture. Alex Gorsky has led the way in offering financial stability 
and resources for service members and their families across America, 
and rewarded out nation's finest for their noble, patriotic service. I 
believe his legacy as a corporate leader in veteran advocacy creates 
unquestioned good will, which is valued by consumers, service members, 
and community leaders. I commend Mr. Gorsky's efforts to put military 
service members first as they protect our nation at home and abroad, 
and help Johnson & Johnson tackle our pressing health care needs.

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