Urging the president of the United States to modify Executive Order 8808 so as to authorize the award of the American Defense Service Medal to members of the United States armed forces who served on active duty after September 1, 1945, and before December 27, 1991.
Impact
If adopted, HR1591 would offer formal recognition to Cold War veterans by opening a pre-existing medal to honor their service. This could significantly improve the morale and pride of veterans, providing them with a tangible acknowledgment of their contributions during a time of heightened military readiness. The measure aims to unify various veterans' organizations, including the American Legion and AMVETS, which have advocated for more definitive acknowledgments of service during the Cold War.
Summary
House Resolution 1591 urges the President of the United States to amend Executive Order 8808 to extend eligibility for the American Defense Service Medal to military personnel who served on active duty from September 1, 1945, to December 27, 1991. This resolution highlights the recognition that Cold War veterans are seeking, as many feel that the current Cold War Recognition Certificate provided by the Department of Defense is insufficient to honor their service. The resolution emphasizes the arduous and dangerous demands placed on military personnel during the Cold War, despite it being characterized more by ideological confrontation than direct conflict.
Contention
There may be challenges regarding costs and implementation. The Pentagon has resisted creating a new medal, citing concerns over expenses. However, supporters of HR1591 argue that amending the existing American Defense Service Medal's eligibility would incur minimal costs while still fulfilling the desire of veterans for formal recognition. The resolution aims to reconcile the cost concerns of high-ranking military officials with the calls for acknowledgment from veterans' groups.
Additional_points
The resolution recalls how similar medals were redefined in the past to accommodate veterans from different eras, suggesting a precedent for this kind of action. It underscores the importance of honoring military service in a way that aligns with historical context and veterans’ expectations, potentially opening doors for broader legislative efforts to recognize other service periods.
Relating to the issuance of state parklands passports to and a waiver of certain state park fees for veterans, active duty armed forces members, and certain family members of a person who died while serving in the United States armed forces.
Relating to the issuance of state parklands passports to and a waiver of certain state park fees for certain veterans, active duty armed forces members, and certain family members of a person who died while serving in the United States armed forces.
Relating to service requirements of certain current or former members of the Texas National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the issuance of state parklands passports to and a waiver of certain state park fees for veterans and certain family members of a person who died while serving in the United States armed forces.
Relating to the creation of the open burn pit registry fund and the issuance of specialty license plates to honor members of the United States armed forces exposed to open burn pits.