Representative Alicea (D-Charlton) recently announced that fellow Veterans & Federal Affairs Committee Co-Chairman Representative Anthony J. Verga (D-Gloucester) and Senator Thomas M. McGee (D-Lynn) have introduced legislation to recognize the more than 59,000 disabled veterans of the Commonwealth.

Recently, the rapid evacuations from battlefields in Iraq and Afghanistan and advances in medical technology have allowed more than 90% of soldiers wounded there to survive their injuries. Despite this marked increase in the survival rate for those wounded on the battlefield, a larger story remains. On a daily basis, disabled veterans of all wars and their families are confronted with new battles here at home, especially the lifelong need for medical care.

In 2000, President Clinton signed into law (Public Law 106-348) an act supporting the creation of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial. This memorial, which will be constructed near the US Capitol, will commemorate the sacrifices and dedication of disabled American veterans from all branches of the Armed Services throughout America’s history. All states have been asked to participate by making a one-time funding pledge. House Docket 5053, An Act Relative to the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial in Washington, D.C., supports the construction of the memorial by pledging $2 for each of the 59,000 disabled veterans who reside in the Commonwealth.

“Many veterans live each day with deep, permanent reminders of their willing sacrifice to protect the United States of America. With this legislation we have an opportunity to honor the service and sacrifices of those who bear the permanent scars of combat. This memorial will serve as a constant reminder that veterans and their families daily bear the burdens of war,” said Verga. Senator McGee remarked that this legislation “is an opportunity for the Commonwealth as a whole to recognize the enormous gratitude we owe the disabled veterans of our country.” Also commenting on the legislation, Representative Alicea said “We owe so much to the veterans of this country for their deep commitment and the sacrifices they have made. This legislation is the least we can do to honor and recognize those who have made such noble sacrifices.”

“On behalf of the 59,000 disabled veterans in the Commonwealth, we applaud the efforts of Senator McGee and Representative Verga. This legislation, if passed, would once again place Massachusetts at the forefront of the effort to recognize and honor the service and sacrifices of our veterans,” said State Adjutant Daniel Stack of the Massachusetts Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Additional information about the memorial can be found at www.dvlmf.org.