Friday, Jul. 04, 2008
Sen. Jeff Denham: A day to say thanks
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ReprintThis Fourth of July marks the 232nd birthday of the United States of America. Independence Day is more than a chance for family and friends to gather for barbecues and firework displays. It is more than a chance to remember the courage and faith of our founding fathers in their pursuit of liberty. Let's take this anniversary of our country to be mindful of the young men and women who risk their lives, and those who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms.
Much has changed since Americans first celebrated independence back in 1776, but one thing remains constant--the soldiers and veterans of America. These special groups of Americans have always been the sword and shield of our liberty. We should honor them today.
The American soldier, while diverse in background, has always been united in answering a call higher than themselves-- to serve our country. Let us not forget it was the soldier who gallantly fought the British during the American Revolution. It was the soldier that fought in the trenches of Europe during World War I and it was the soldier that stormed the beaches of Normandy during the World War II. Our soldiers have fought in the mountains of Korea and the jungles of Vietnam. Today, the soldier is again fighting for freedom in the streets of Fallujah and the mountains of Afghanistan. It has always been the soldier that has spilled his blood to protect our independence.
These brave men and women have put their lives at risk for our freedom. It is only fitting, that as a government, we reward these returning heroes. Historically, state and federal laws have helped veterans reestablish themselves. After WWII, the Federal Government passed the G.I. Bill. California has the CalVet Home Loan Program. This program has helped thousands of veterans and active duty personnel achieve the American Dream of homeownership through low-interest loans.
While we light fireworks and barbeque, our veterans face the risk of losing the CalVet Home Loan Program. By the year 2010, the program will be out of money and turning away veterans. As we celebrate our appreciation for our freedom, we cannot stand by and let these programs fade away. Currently, legislation by Senator Mark Wyland, Senate Bill 1752, would authorize $900 million in bonds to continue the CalVet program.
Senator Dave Cogdill and I have also authored Senate Bill 1455, "the Gold Star License Plate Bill." Our bill will allow California to honor families of U.S. Armed Service active duty members who have died while serving their nation. We are pleased that this bill recently passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee and now moves to the Assembly Floor.
Say "Thank You" to a veteran and urge your local representative to support Senator Wyland's bill, along with our SB 1455. As responsible citizens, we can show our veterans, and service men and women that we care.
California Senator Jeff Denham (R-Merced)represents the 12th Senate District.