Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for us to enjoy our freedom. Take time this Memorial Day to honor veterans by attending a local parade or community event.

In Washington D.C., Congress enacted a resolution in 2000 declaring a "National Moment of Remembrance" to be observed on Memorial Day, which will be observed at 3 p.m. on Monday. I encourage you to join me and many others for a moment of silence out of respect and recognition of the brave acts of those who sacrificed their lives for our country.


Here in the General Assembly, we passed legislation recently that positively impacts our Veterans as well as active military and will now be part of our state law come July 1:

• Aiding Active Military and their Families: Those military personnel who have been in combat and are adjusting back to civilian life will now have a three year window to apply for a grant from the Military Family Relief Fund. The grant can be applied to food, housing, utilities, medical services and transportation expenses.

• Accommodating Military Parents: Parents who receive military deployment orders can now delegate a person who has a close relationship with their child to be the caretaker of their child when they are away.

• Awarding Educational Credits: State educational institutions are required to award educational credit to members of the military who are enrolled in a state educational institution and successfully complete courses that are part of the individual’s military service. 

If you or someone you know is a veteran, I encourage you to visit my website to download a free benefits guide for Hoosier Veterans. We also offer other free publications such as Guides to Ind. History and Guides for Hoosier Seniors, as well as many more.

Hope you have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!