America's "Greatest Generation" produced many heroes who fought for our freedoms in Europe and in the Pacific.  However, there is one group of courageous soldiers from the Second World War that is often overlooked.  Over 215,000 Americans joined the United States Merchant Marines, which were critical to safely delivering troops, food, fuel, and other supplies to every theater of the war. 

One out of every 26 mariners serving aboard merchant ships in World War II died in the line of duty.  This is a greater percentage of war-related deaths than all other U.S. services.  Unfortunately, this courageous group of men was forgotten when Congress enacted the GI Bill of Rights in 1945.

The Merchant Mariners were forgotten for four decades until 1988 when they were finally afforded veteran status.  There are still parts of the GI bill that have never made been made available to veterans of the Merchant Marines.

To help make up for over 40 years of unpaid benefits and to recognize these brave soldiers, I have cosponsored the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2004, H.R. 3729.  This bill would give each eligible veteran a monthly benefit of $1,000.  This payment would also be available to any surviving spouse of a Merchant Mariner who served in World War II.