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VETS News Release: [07/21/2006]
Contact Name: Melinda Thielen
Phone Number: 202-693-4676 or x5051
Release Number: 06-1260-NAT

U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Recognizes Heroic Service of Louisiana Police Officers

Applauds Service in Hurricanes and War on Terror

BATON ROUGE, La. — In remarks today before the Louisiana Fraternal Order of Police at their 26th Biennial State Conference, U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao thanked the officers whose service in the line of duty in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina saved lives and restored civil order. Secretary Chao also highlighted the Bush Administration's efforts to help law enforcement officers serving at home and returning from military duty.

"Many Louisiana police officers lost their homes in last year's hurricanes and despite being separated from their families, they stayed on the job, rescuing citizens and helping to restore order in a difficult and dangerous situation," said Secretary Chao. "We thank them for their service and want them to know that President George W. Bush, the U.S. Department of Labor and everyone in this Administration are deeply committed to rebuilding a better and stronger Gulf Coast region."

Secretary Chao paid tribute to members of the Fraternal Order of Police who have been called up for active duty in the U.S. Reserve and National Guard. She also discussed the Labor Department's role in providing services and training to America's veterans.

"The Fraternal Order of Police has a large number of members in the U.S. Reserve and National Guard. We are so grateful for their sacrifice and service to their country," said Secretary Chao. "That is why the Bush Administration acted to strengthen veterans' reemployment rights and increased outreach to soldiers so they know their rights to return to their civilian jobs and employers know their responsibilities to protect them."

The Department of Labor (DOL) and the Fraternal Order of Police also are working together to help the spouses of fallen officers through the Steve Young Memorial Scholarship program. Initially, DOL committed $2 million to help spouses of fallen law enforcement officers provide for their families and build new careers. Because the Steve Young scholarship program has achieved outstanding results, Secretary Chao announced an additional $1 million in commitment from the Department of Labor to this worthy program.

For more information about the department, including employment and training programs for veterans, contact the Veterans' Employment and Training Service office nearest you, listed in the phone book in the United States Government under the Labor Department or visit our website: http://www.dol.gov/vets/aboutvets/contacts/main.htm.

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