Last week, we celebrated Memorial Day, a day honoring our servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We can never fully repay, nor can we ever fully express our thanks for their sacrifice. When I arrived in Congress, I sought out a seat on the House Veterans Affairs’ Committee because I believe the best way to honor the sacrifices of our military personnel is to treat our veterans with the care and dignity that they deserve and have earned.
Last year, I had the honor of partnering with Senator Jim Webb of Virginia, to pass a new and much-improved GI Bill, known as the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. We promised our service members the opportunity of a higher education when they joined, and it's our responsibility to see that they get it when they become veterans. As a former teacher, I know how empowering and transformative a quality education can be. This new GI Bill is now law, and will extend educational benefits to members of the military who have served on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001, including – for the first time – activated reservists and National Guard Members. Career service members will also be able to transfer some or all of the new benefit to their spouses and children.
Still, many veterans may have questions, or may not be aware that they are eligible for the new GI Bill. Interested veterans and family members can join me, VA education experts and officials from local schools at:
Post 9/11 GI Bill Informational Workshop
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, June 6
Mesa Community College – Student Union
1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa.
Near the Clock Tower
For National Guard Members or veterans who are unable to attend the afternoon event, there will be an additional GI Bill workshop earlier the same day from 11:00 a.m. to noon at the Arizona National Guard Headquarters. Feel free to contact my office at 480-946-2411 for more details.
It is my hope and firm expectation that this new GI Bill will provide veterans with a greater chance of success while transitioning back into civilian life. After World War II, the original GI Bill empowered veterans to expand the American middle class and catapult our country into a period of unprecedented economic productivity.
I believe that the new Post-9/11 GI Bill will give those who have served in uniform an opportunity to spur a new period of solid growth and shared prosperity in our nation.
Sincerely,
Harry
A lengthier press release regarding Saturday's workshops and the new GI Bill is here.
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