Rep. Panetta’s Bill to Rename San Jose VA Clinic After Pat Tillman Passes House

Washington, D.C. - United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced that the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed bipartisan legislation he authored and introduced to rename the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in San Jose the Corporal Patrick D. Tillman VA Clinic. The legislation is co-led by Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-41) and was cosponsored by every member of the California Congressional delegation.

Pat Tillman displayed immense passion on the football field, in the classroom,

and in service to the U.S. Army after the September 11th attacks.

This legislation honors the legacy of South San Jose native Pat Tillman, who left a successful career in the NFL to serve his country in the U.S. Army following the September 11th terrorist attacks. Tillman's service, his ultimate sacrifice, and commitment to our country embodies the very spirit of America.

The bill required support from the full California Congressional delegation for passage. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) has introduced companion legislation in the Senate, and Rep. Panetta will continue to work with colleagues from both parties to honor this American hero and help advance the legislation swiftly.

Rep. Panetta speaks on the House floor to push for the passage of

his bipartisan legislation to honor Corporal Tillman.

To watch the video, click HEREor on the above photo.

"Renaming the San Jose VA clinic after Corporal Pat Tillman is about carrying on his legacy of patriotism and passion, as well as the progress we must make as a nation. Pat did nothing half-baked, did everything with a full heart, and represented the very best of our country in academics, athletics, and in service to the United States of America," said Rep. Panetta. "In this day of division and dysfunction, we must always be reminded of the service and sacrifice for our great nation that Corporal Tillman exemplified. At the same time, the circumstances surrounding his death in friendly fire remind us how our Army, Congress, and our country must ensure that this never happens again and how we can always do better when it comes to serving those who serve us. I'm proud to lead the California delegation in this effort to rename a South San Jose VA clinic in Pat's honor, and will work closely with our California Senators to ensure we properly cement his legacy."

"Pat Tillman answered the call of his country in the wake of September 11th, exchanging his Arizona Cardinals uniform for an Army Ranger uniform," said Rep. Calvert. "His extraordinary sacrifice embodies the patriotism that inspires so many to serve. I am thankful the House has passed this bipartisan bill from my colleague, Rep. Panetta, to honor Pat's legacy."

Corporal Tillman served with distinction in the 75th Ranger Regiment, deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He was killed in action by friendly fire in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004, and posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

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