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Rep Anna Eshoo

Memorial Day

May 25, 2009
e-Newsletters
May 25, 2009

Greetings!

Memorial Day is a time to remember those Americans who, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, gave "the last full measure of devotion" in defending our nation and our freedom. I'm proud to honor and recognize the accomplishments and dedication of our troops, veterans, and military families and, in particular those who selflessly have given their lives in defense of our nation's freedom and the brave men and women now serving in uniform.

The best way to honor those who serve our nation is to ensure that when we send troops into harm's way, they are deployed with purpose and in a way that values their devotion to service. And we must do all we can to ensure they have the best equipment and materials to succeed and to return home safely to their families.

The focus of the111th Congress has been on restoring military readiness, responsibly ending the war in Iraq, and refocusing the fight against terrorism in Afghanistan. Congress is also working to "Keep America's Promise to Military Families" - by shining a light on and addressing many of the unique challenges and opportunities facing the nearly 3 million Military and Reservist families. This effort will build on the measures that were enacted for military families in the 110th Congress.

New GI Bill

The New GI Bill restores the promise of a full, four-year college education for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, making them part of the economic recovery, just like the veterans of WWII. This measure is scheduled to take effect on August 1st, and on May 1st, veterans began to apply for a certificate of eligibility at the VA website http://www.gibill.va.gov/.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Creating jobs and improving the quality of life for our troops and veterans is part of our plan to get the American economy back on track. That's why we included the following important investments in the Recovery Act:,

  • Rebuilding and renovating VA and military hospitals to prevent another Walter Reed-like scandal, and reducing the backlog of veterans waiting to access earned benefits.
  • Giving businesses tax credits for hiring unemployed veterans, and providing disabled veterans a payment of $250 to help make ends meet during this economic crisis.
  • Helping military homeowners harmed by the housing crisis.
  • Building new transition centers for wounded warriors returning from combat, more military child care centers, and better barracks and military family housing.
  • Renovating DOD facilities and making them more energy efficient.
For detailed information on the legislation, you can visit my website at www.eshoo.house.gov. I will continue to work hard in Congress for each and every one of you.

As always, I rely on and value your thoughts and ideas on the issues you care about, so please let me hear from you.

Sincerely,

Anna G. Eshoo
Member of Congress