Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2018

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 299, the blue water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act.

Mr. Speaker, this is really a great day in the United States Congress, Mr. Speaker, and a great day for our heroes, our blue water Navy veterans. This important piece of legislation will enable blue water Navy veterans to receive the compensation benefits they have earned and deserve.

In 2002, the VA unjustly removed the disability eligibility to almost 100,000 veterans who served in the territorial seas of Vietnam during the Vietnam war. This bill restores the presumption of service connection for those suffering from diseases that have been linked to Agent Orange.

Our Nation's heroes have answered the call to protect the liberties we enjoy on a daily basis. Today it is our turn to answer the call and assist our veterans in return. I urge my colleagues to support this very important bill.

I want to thank Chairman Roe and Representative Valadao for leading the charge and not giving up. I know we didn't agree on the pay-for initially. Chairman Roe did not give up. He worked tirelessly on behalf of our veterans. I appreciate it so very much.

Mr. Speaker, I am so proud to serve on this committee. Let's pass this good bill and get it to the Senate.

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