House Subcommittee Holds Hearing on Dreier Veterans Database Bill

December 13, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A House Subcommittee heard testimony today on a bipartisan bill introduced by Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas) and Adam Schiff (D-Pasadena) that would provide federal support to a national registry of veterans memorials. The House Committee on Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Recreation and Public Lands today considered H.R. 2748, the National War Permanent Tribute Historical Database Act. Dreier and Schiff introduced the bill after hearing of the efforts of Northridge resident Brian Rooney who has founded the RVETS, “Remembering Veterans Who Earn Their Stripes,” organization.

“After hearing about Brian Rooney’s efforts at the state and local level, I was inspired to try and help him expand his database nationally,” said Dreier, who chairs the House Rules Committee. “Once completed, this database will provide our nation with an excellent resource for future generations to learn about the sacrifices made by so many to defend our country and our ideals. I’m very pleased that the Subcommittee has expressed interest in this important legislation.”

In fall 2000, a sense of Congress was approved expressing the need for cataloging and maintaining public memorials commemorating military conflicts and those who served in them. H.R. 2748 would create a national database with federal support. Additionally, the authority and responsibility for the database would be transferred from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Secretary of the Interior, who already has responsibility for our national parks and monuments.

Dreier also thanked Brian Rooney for his dedication and perseverance in working on this important national resource. “Without the work of Mr. Rooney, this database would not have come to my attention. His efforts in California have shown the effectiveness and importance of commemorating our nation’s heroes. At a time when our nation is again fighting in defense of liberty and freedom, those who fought in the past deserve even more recognition. It’s my hope that with this database will help Americans show them the gratitude they deserve.”