Relating to the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal to members of the armed forces wounded or killed at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will revise existing laws to include specific provisions dedicated to those individuals affected by the Fort Hood incident in 2009. It will institutionalize the awarding of the Texas Purple Heart Medal to service members with combat service after September 11, 2001, who meet certain criteria, thus solidifying this mechanism as a formal acknowledgment of their sacrifices. This change underscores the state’s recognition of both wartime and peacetime threats and the need for the state to honor its military personnel accordingly.
Summary
SB964 amends the criteria governing the awarding of the Texas Purple Heart Medal, specifically for service members who were wounded or killed during the tragic shooting incident at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009. This legislation aims to ensure that those who sacrificed themselves in such a significant event are recognized appropriately with the state’s highest military honor. The bill reflects a commitment to honoring the bravery and service of Texas military personnel and acknowledges the unique circumstances surrounding Fort Hood's impact on the state and the nation.
Contention
While the bill mainly aims to honor the service members of the armed forces, there may be discussions regarding how the criteria may affect other awards and whether it sets a precedent for future amendments to military recognition in Texas. Some stakeholders may debate the focus on a single incident rather than a broader criteria that reflects the entirety of veteran experiences. However, the significance of the Fort Hood event serves as a strong motivating factor for the bill's proponents, who argue that this specific acknowledgment is necessary to address the unique trauma associated with that day.
Identical
Relating to the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal to members of the armed forces wounded or killed at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009.
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.
Congratulating U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) John Footman on his official receipt of the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device and the Purple Heart for service in the Vietnam War.
Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.
Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.