[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 15811]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE JEWISH WAR VETERANS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

  Mr. KIRK. Mr. President, I would like to honor the Jewish War 
Veterans of the United States of America, JWV, as they celebrate their 
120th anniversary. Their service has not only benefitted the Jewish and 
veterans communities, but this Nation as a whole.
  Since 1896, the JWV has been the Nation's leading organization 
representing those of Jewish faith who have served overseas in the 
military. The Jewish community has served in every war and conflict 
that this great country has fought, beginning with the Revolutionary 
War, including the Civil War, and with our current military engagements 
in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 1933, the JWV protested against Nazi 
Germany's policies towards Jews. JWV continued its legacy in advocacy 
in 1963, as the only veterans organization that joined Martin Luther 
King, Jr.'s March on Washington for civil rights.
  The JWV continues its mission to preserve the Jewish American 
military legacy, protect veterans rights, and promote community with 
250 posts across the Nation and in Israel. The JWV provides numerous 
contributions to society, including partnering with Boy Scouts of 
America and Girl Scouts of the USA; working with JROTC, ROTC, and other 
military college programs; providing disaster relief services to 
victims of natural disasters; and speaking out against anti-Semitism. 
The JWV has proven that Jews have been and continue to be a vital 
element in the preservation of American doctrine and the defense and 
maintenance of American security.
  I congratulate and commend the JWV for their hard work and dedication 
in defending our free institutions, fighting against bigotry and 
prejudice, and honoring Jewish servicemembers, veterans and their 
families who have made great sacrifices for our country.

                          ____________________