Resolution calls for a day of observation in honor of Native American Veterans
Washington, D.C. – The House has passed H. Res. 744, a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Heather Wilson to honor and recognize the contributions of Indian veterans.
H. Res. 744 recognizes all Indian veterans who have served the Nation with honor, pride, devotion, wisdom and strength for serving their country and protecting their homeland. The resolution also calls upon the President to issue a proclamation urging the United States to observe a day in honor of these veterans.
"Native American Veterans should be recognized for their service in uniform," said Wilson and Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, the lead Democratic cosponsor of the bill. "This resolution gives all Native American Veterans the formal recognition they deserve for their sacrifices and contributions."
"Native Americans disproportionately serve in uniform. We should honor and recognize their service," said Wilson.
There are an estimated 195,871 American Indian Veterans in the United States.
Native Americans have been participants in the War of 1812, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War. During World War I, 12,000 Native Americans served in the United States Military and in World War II, more than 44,000 Native Americans served their country in both the European and Pacific fronts of the way. Native Americans have also fought in the Korean conflict, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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