Pelosi:
'We Must Restore Full Benefits for Filipino Veterans'
February
6, 2004
Washington,
D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following
statement today on a town hall meeting hosted by Representative
Bob Filner (D-CA) on Filipino veterans' issues:
"Thank
you, Congressman Filner, for convening this meeting today to address
the concerns of our nation's Filipino veterans. I commend your leadership
and your tireless work to restore overdue benefits for Filipino
veterans.
"In a
time of war, we asked for and received the commitment of Filipino
soldiers to serve under U.S. authority. The people of the Philippines
played a vital role in the outcome of World War II. Fighting a ruthless
enemy, who at one point controlled most of East Asia, countless
Americans and Filipinos sacrificed their lives to uphold democratic
principles. The courageous efforts of Filipino soldiers, scouts
and guerillas were central to allied victory in the Philippines
and, therefore, in the Pacific theater.
"As Americans,
we make a simple yet sacred promise to those who serve our country
in uniform: 'You have taken care of us, so we will take care of
you.'
"When
Congress passed the Rescission Act of 1946, it revoked the full
eligibility rights of brave Filipino soldiers and broke our nation's
commitment to those who have served. The Rescission Act is a sad,
shameful chapter in the history of the United States. Over the years
we have restored some health care benefits to the Filipino veterans,
but we must restore full benefits. That is why I have urged Congress
to pass the Equity Act, which would fulfill the commitment the United
States made over half a century ago to courageous Filipino soldiers.
"Filipino
veterans who have fought for freedom and liberty should not have
to fight their own government for the benefits they deserve. On
the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldier behind.
As a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we
will leave no veteran behind.
"Again,
thank you, Congressman Filner, for hosting this meeting and to everyone
participating today who is fighting for justice for Filipino veterans."
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