Independence Day, also referred to as The Fourth Of July, federal holiday in the United States, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a new nation, The United States of America, and were no longer part of the British Empire. It happened when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence that had been proposed in June by Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia, declaring the United States’ independence from Great Britain rule. After voting for independence, Congress turned its attention to the Declaration of Independence, a statement explaining this decision, which had been prepared by a committee of five, with Thomas Jefferson as its principal author. Congress debated and revised the wording of the Declaration, finally approving it two days later on July 4. Be sure to fly your American flag proudly.
Blue Water Navy Closer to Receiving Benefits
With a unanimous 382-0 vote in the House last Monday, H.R. 299, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2017, is closer than ever before to becoming law and finally providing Blue Water Navy veterans the benefits they have been denied for too long by VA’s arbitrary and capricious regulations. The bill would also expand benefits to veterans exposed to Agent Orange while serving along the Korean DMZ and children born with spina bifida due to a parent’s exposure during service in Thailand. It will also require VA to report on research being conducted on Gulf War Illness. The VFW calls on the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs to swiftly consider and pass this important legislation.
Important Dates in July
July 4 – Independence Day
July 27 – Korean War Armistice Day (Signed 1953)
July 29 – Anniversary of the Army Chaplains Corp
POW/MIA Update
Army Sgt. James K. Park, a WWII veteran, was a member of Company I, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. Interment services are pending.
Navy Fireman 1st Class Walter F. Schleiter, a WWII veteran, was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor.
Navy Seaman 1st Class Daniel L. Guisinger, a WWII veteran, was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
