Congratulating and Commending the VFW on their 100th Anniversary
H.J.Res. 34

June 29, 1999

I am pleased to join with the Chairman of the Committee, the gentleman from Arizona, in strong support of H.J.Res. 34, a resolution congratulating and commending the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States on the occasion of their centennial anniversary. Throughout its century of existence, the VFW has provided 100 years of extraordinary service to veterans and their families.

From the Buddy Poppy program, established in 1922 to raise funds for national veterans’ service programs and to provide relief for local veterans and their families – to Operation Uplink, established just three years ago to enable hospitalized veterans and servicemembers stationed around the globe to "phone home" – the VFW, throughout its century-long history, has provided support and assistance to the men and women who have proudly worn the uniform of the United States.

The VFW should also be commended for the work it’s members have done in their communities across the country. The VFW Community Service Program, the Voice of Democracy essay competition, the VFW Safety Program, and VFW-sponsored youth activities have all contributed to the strength and stability of our great country. In view of these good works, the two million members of the VFW are the epitome of the citizen-soldier upon whom this nation has and continues to rely.