[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 75 (Tuesday, May 7, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S2684]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         RECOGNIZING VETFRIENDS

 Mr. SCOTT of South Carolina. Madam President, as a member of 
the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, it is my 
privilege to honor a South Carolina small business during the U.S. 
Small Business Administration's National Small Business Week. In my 
State, small business owners work hard to contribute to our local 
economy and serve South Carolina communities. Today, it is my honor to 
recognize VetFriends of Mount Pleasant, SC, as the Senate Small 
Business of the Day.
  Dale Sutcliffe, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of Desert Storm, founded 
VetFriends nearly 20 years ago with the mission of reuniting veterans. 
Following his service, Dale realized the benefit that a national 
registry of veterans could have and quickly set up a platform where 
veterans can reconnect with their fellow servicemembers during their 
time serving our country. The VetFriends platform has over 2.5 million 
members and has brought together thousands of veterans with their 
former associates. In the process, the platform has helped veterans 
share stories and photos, as well as stay informed about upcoming 
reunions and events. Currently, the business employs over 25 South 
Carolinians, and almost all have a close relative or partner who is 
enlisted or has served.
  The team at VetFriends has a longstanding tradition of supporting the 
veteran community and are regularly seen volunteering at the Ralph H. 
Johnson VA Medical Center. Additionally, the business has taken an 
active role working with the Wounded Warrior Project and the Patriots 
Point Naval and Maritime Museum in Charleston. It is clear that 
VetFriend's values and goals not only enhance their business plan but 
also improve the community that they belong to.
  As we highlight the role that small businesses play throughout this 
week, it is my pleasure to honor the hard work that VetFriends is doing 
in the great State of South Carolina. They are a tremendous example of 
the way small businesses create innovative solutions, as well as give 
back to the community; I wish them nothing but success in their future 
endeavors.

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