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Beatty Introduces Legislation Recognizing African-American Veterans

February 21, 2014

(Washington, D.C.) – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement detailing three resolutions she sponsored honoring African-American veterans, African-American Medal of Honor recipients, and the Buffalo Soldiers.

Congresswoman Joyce Beatty introduced H.Con.Res.78, a resolution recognizing the difficult challenges Black veterans faced when returning home after serving in the Armed Forces, their heroic military sacrifices, and their patriotism in fighting for equal rights.

"Black History Month is a perfect time to recognize our African-American patriots. Despite not always receiving fair compensation or equal benefits, African-American veterans have never hesitated to serve our country. I hope this resolution will increase awareness of the noble contributions African-American veterans have made to our nation."

Congresswoman Beatty introduced, H.Res.463, honoring the outstanding contributions of African-American Medal of Honor recipients. The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest recognition awarded by the U.S. government for military service. Dating back to 1863, 3,468 Medals of Honor have been awarded to a total of 3,448 individuals (there have been 19 double recipients). A total of 87 African-Americans have been awarded the Medal of Honor. 330 Ohioans have been awarded the Medal of Honor in conflicts dating back to the Civil War.

"It is important that the House of Representatives honor and pay tribute to these distinguished individuals, who often fought the war for racial equality both in and out of uniform."

Congresswoman Beatty introduced H. Con. Res. urging the United States Postal Service to re-issue a commemorative postage stamp honoring the Buffalo Soldiers. The Buffalo Soldiers were established in 1866 by an act of Congress as the first peacetime all-black regiment in the United States Army. During the 82 years of the Buffalo Soldiers' existence, 23 soldiers received the Congressional Medal of Honor. A stamp was issued by the United States Postal Service in honor of the Buffalo Soldiers on April 22, 1994; however, this stamp was placed on ‘‘off sale'' in December 1995.

"The Buffalo Soldiers are a significant part of American military history and should have a postal stamp issued in recognition of their dedication to military service. This Black History Month, I am pleased to introduced legislation urging the Postal Service to issue a stamp in honor of the Buffalo Soldiers, whose heroic military sacrifices are a remarkable example of true patriotism."

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Issues:Veterans