Congressman Denham Named ‘Legislator of the Year’ By the Association of the United States Navy

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) today received the 2012 National Legislative Advocacy Award from the Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) for his efforts on the introduction and successful passage of the Veteran Skills to Jobs Act.

Earlier this year, Denham introduced H.R. 4155, the Veteran Skills to Jobs Act, to address the unacceptably high rate of veteran unemployment by streamlining the federal certification process and cutting through the bureaucratic red tape, making it easier for veterans to utilize the skills they acquired in the military to find work at home.

“I am honored to be recognized by AUSN for my efforts on behalf of America’s veterans,” said Denham. “America is blessed with the strongest, most capable and professional military in the world. Unfortunately for many of our returning veterans, transitioning into the civilian workforce means a battle with joblessness. The federal government has invested in our service members and should do everything it can to ensure that they can put their skills to work.”

“I’m proud to have worked with my colleagues in the House and Senate on both sides of the aisle to uphold our commitment to our veterans and ensure a seamless transition to civilian life,” Denham continued. “I also want to thank AUSN for their continued support and dedication for these efforts and for making passage of this bill a priority to put our veterans to work here at home.”

During AUSN’s National Conference in Norfolk, VA, on October 26, 2012, Rep. Denham was selected by the AUSN Awards Committee to receive the award for his success on the passage of the Veteran Skills to Jobs Act.

“On behalf of the Association of the United States Navy (AUSN), I would like to congratulate you on being awarded the 2012 AUSN National Legislative Advocacy Award!” said RADM Casey W. Coane, U.S. Navy (ret), Executive Director, AUSN, in a letter informing Rep. Denham of his award. “This important piece of legislation helps separating servicemembers get training and certification recognition within Federal agencies for their roles and experiences while serving on Active duty while lowering the rate of unemployment amongst our nation’s veterans.”

Rep. Denham and his veterans affairs legislative aide, who was also recognized by AUSN with the 2012 National Legislative Proponent Award, will be honored during AUSN’s annual Capitol Hill Reception on January 15, 2013 in Washington, D.C.