A concurrent resolution urging the 118th Congress to take favorable action on S. 849 and H.R. 7972, to provide for the inclusion on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall the names of the lost crew members of the U.S.S. Frank E. Evans.
Impact
The adoption of HCR3008 signifies a formal acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by U.S. service members and emphasizes the necessity of including those who died under indirect circumstances related to military operations in Vietnam. By urging Congress to take action, the resolution aims to rectify what supporters view as an oversight regarding the inclusion criteria for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This can also serve to influence public sentiment and potentially impact future policy discussions around veteran recognition in memorialization practices.
Summary
HCR3008 is a concurrent resolution that urges the 118th Congress to act favorably on two specific federal bills, S. 849 and H.R. 7972. This legislation aims to include the names of the lost crew members of the U.S.S. Frank E. Evans on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. The U.S.S. Frank E. Evans tragically collided with the HMAS Melbourne during Operation Sea Spirit on June 3, 1969, resulting in the deaths of 74 sailors, including two from North Dakota. The resolution underscores the importance of honoring these service members and linking their sacrifice to the broader context of the Vietnam War.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HCR3008 appears to be positive, particularly among legislators and constituents advocating for the recognition of military veterans. Supporters express a strong sense of duty to honor those who served, especially given the historical significance of the events surrounding the U.S.S. Frank E. Evans. There may be some ambivalence or opposition from factions less focused on veteran affairs, but overall, the resolution has garnered support from a bipartisan group of legislators, reflecting a shared respect for military service.
Contention
While the resolution itself is largely supportive and centered around honoring veterans, there may be underlying contention regarding the broader implications of how names are selected for inclusion on memorials. This points to ongoing discussions about military history, representation, and the criteria used to honor individuals. Some may argue that inclusion should extend to other warriors whose sacrifices are also significant, while others maintain that specificity in circumstances—such as direct combat operations—should guide these determinations.
A concurrent resolution urging the 119th Congress to provide for the inclusion on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall the names of the lost crew members of the U.S.S. Frank E. Evans.
Memorializing Congress to restore the presumption of a service connection for Agent Orange exposure to veterans who served on the inland waterways, territorial waters, and in the airspace of the Republic of Vietnam.
This joint resolution recognizes the sacrifice of veterans of the Vietnam War and commends them for their sacrifice to the United States. The joint resolution also urges the President to formally acknowledge the widespread mistreatment of such veterans as part of the ongoing Vietnam War Commemoration and issue a formal apology to the veterans and their families. Additionally, the joint resolution expresses urgent support for increased education to better reflect the sacrifice and treatment of Vietnam veterans.