Rep. Mike Collins Introduces the 250 Years of Military Honor Package

Washington, D.C. -- In honor of 250 years of American Independence, secured by the sacrifices of generations of American military members, Representative Mike Collins (GA-10) introduced the 250 Years of Military Honor Package today. This bipartisan legislative package recognizes those who have worn the uniform by establishing a Veterans Appreciation Month, the America 250 Military Appreciation Discount, and Veterans Tax Relief Weekends.

Rep. Mike Collins has built strong bipartisan support for his 250 Years of Military Honor Package, joined by House cosponsors Rep. Sanford Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Rep. Clay Fuller (GA-14), Rep. Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Rep. Brian Mast (FL-21), Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36), Rep. Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Rep. Wesley Hunt (TX-38), and Rep. Jake Ellzey (TX-06), all of whom support the full package. The nation's largest war veterans service organization, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), also supports the full resolution package. Provisions of the 250 Years of Military Honor Packages are supported by House cosponsors Rep. John McGuire, III (VA-05), Rep. Jim Baird (IN-04), and Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) and Tragedy Assistance Programs for Survivors (TAPS).

"The United States of America did not reach 250 years by accident, our way of life and our freedoms have been defended by courageous and selfless service members every step of the way," said Congressman Collins. "We have a responsibility to recognize those who have worn the uniform, they've made the past 250 years possible and are ensuring the next 250 years of freedom. This package is going to give them the recognition they deserve by establishing a Veterans Appreciation Month, an America 250 Military Discount, and Veterans Tax Relief Weekends. This is a small token of our appreciation for their service."

"As America celebrates its 250th birthday, I am glad to join Congressman Mike Collins and my other colleagues in introducing these bipartisan resolutions recognizing the crucial role our nation's veterans played in securing and defending the freedoms enjoyed in this great country. This is how we can say thank you for their service and sacrifice, while we celebrate 250 years of America." said Congressman Bishop.

"As a proud Northwest Georgian and Air Force veteran, I am honored to sign onto such important measures. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our Nation, we should keep in mind this special time is only possible because of our brave military members, veterans, and their families. They defend our Nation daily and we should honor them at every opportunity." said Congressman Fuller.

"While we can never say thank you enough to the men and women who protected us, this package of resolutions is a meaningful step. From tax relief, to financial appreciation, and establishing recognition, our veterans deserve this and so much more." said Chairman Mast.

"For 250 years, veterans have stood on the front lines defending this nation. They've carried the weight of this country in every generation and every fight," said Congressman Luttrell. "That kind of sacrifice deserves more than words, it deserves action. I'm proud to stand alongside Congressman Collins to recognize these efforts and honor the men and women who've served and protected our freedoms."

"I'm proud to co-sponsor Representative Collins' resolutions recognizing Veterans Appreciation Month, as well as the America 250 Military Appreciation Discount and Veterans Tax Relief Weekend initiatives." said Congressman Hunt. "As a veteran who served, I had the honor of fighting alongside my fellow West Point classmates and my brothers in arms to defend and secure freedom around the world. I know firsthand what these resolutions mean, not just to those who served, but to the families who stood behind them every step of the way. We owe our veterans more than words. We owe them action, our respect, and our unwavering commitment to never forget their service."

"As a Navy SEAL Veteran, I know about service and sacrifice," said Congressman McGuire. "We are the home of the free because of the brave. We would not have a country without our men and women in our military. They risk and, in some cases, give their lives for us. Every day we are grateful for their sacrifice. Whether it's a month in their honor or providing tax relief, these heroes deserve anything we can offer to show our appreciation. I am proud to join my friend Rep. Collins and support our nation's veterans in this way."

As a Vietnam combat veteran, I know the sacrifices our men and women in uniform make every day in defense of our country," said Congressman Baird. "Establishing a Veterans Appreciation Month ensures that we dedicate time to recognize the courage, selflessness, resilience, and service of our veterans. As we approach America's 250^th birthday, we must renew our commitment to supporting those who have answered the call to serve and defended our precious freedoms from the Battles of Lexington and Concord through today. I thank Congressman Collins for introducing this important bill to honor our heroic veterans."