ATLANTA (February 21, 2014) | Sen. Ed Harbison (D- Columbus), Chairman of the Senate Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee, was recently awarded the Vietnam War Commemoration Certificate of Appreciation for his dedicated service to Georgia’s veterans. With over two decades of service in the State Senate, the Department of Defense cited his unwavering commitment to the service men and women of Georgia with numerous legislative efforts aimed at enhancing veteran’s quality of life.
“I would like to thank the Vietnam War Commemoration for this distinguished honor,” said Sen. Harbison. “Throughout my time in the U.S. Marines, I gained a true understanding of what it means to serve and protect the citizens of this great nation. My work as a state senator has only deepened my commitment to public service and allowed me the opportunity to advocate on behalf of the courageous men and women who serve in our armed forces. Although we have made significant strides, there is still much to be done and I look forward to continuing my work in the senate for years to come.”
The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act authorized the Secretary of Defense to conduct a program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The commemorative program includes activities and ceremonies to achieve the following objectives:
- To thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war (POW), or listed as missing in action (MIA), for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans.
- To highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and the contributions of Federal agencies and governmental and non-governmental organizations that served with, or in support of, the Armed Forces.
- To pay tribute to the contributions made on the home front by the people of the United States during the Vietnam War.
- To highlight the advances in technology, science, and medicine related to military research conducted during the Vietnam War.
- To recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by the allies of the United States during the Vietnam War.
For more information on the Vietnam War Commemoration, please visit:http://www.vietnamwar50th.com/.