Congressmen Guy Reschenthaler and Tim Ryan Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Waive Passport Fees for Purple Heart Recipients
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Tim Ryan (D-OH) introduced bipartisan legislation in the House of Representatives to waive all passport fees for recipients of the Purple Heart, which is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who is wounded or killed in battle. This legislation has been endorsed by the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers.
"As a Navy veteran, I'm proud to join with Congressman Ryan to introduce the Passports for Purple Hearts Act today," said Congressman Reschenthaler (R-PA). "This bill recognizes the courage and sacrifice of our nation's Purple Heart recipients by exempting their passport fees, enabling these brave men and women to travel unencumbered by bureaucratic fees. I call on our colleagues to join us in supporting these American heroes."
"I am proud to introduce this legislation that demonstrates our nation's gratitude to these Purple Heart recipients who sacrificed so. These brave individuals put their lives on the line to protect our country, this is the very least we can do for them," said Congressman Ryan (D-OH)."Who better to represent our nation abroad than those who sacrificed for their country?"
"As National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and on behalf of the estimated 500,000 living recipients of our Nation's oldest decoration, awarded only to those members of the military who were killed or wounded while defending the freedoms of all Americans, we truly appreciate this recognition of their service and sacrifice," said Felix Garcia III, National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
"The men and women who wear the Purple Heart medal share an unbreakable bond with those who, as Lincoln said, ‘gave their last full measure of devotion.' This medal created by General George Washington, and reinstituted by General Douglas MacArthur represents the true cost of freedom. We applaud this effort, as any steps to honor or recognize these individuals should be welcomed," said Herman Breuer, President of the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers.
There are an estimated 500,000 living Purple Heart recipients who would be eligible to receive a waiver of passport fees.
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