WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today Congressman David Wu announced that he will recognize the contributions of World War II and Vietnam War veterans living in Oregon’s 1st Congressional District by presenting them with certificates of Special Congressional Recognition.

During World War II, some members of the U.S. Navy Armed Guard defended merchant ships delivering much-needed supplies to the war effort.  Although these soldiers served admirably and regularly saw combat, they have been largely unrecognized because they were not stationed on a military vessel.

Legislation was passed in 1999 to give members of Congress the authority to recognize the contribution of these veterans.  In addition, veterans who received the Vietnam Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, or the Vietnam Campaign Medal for service in the Vietnam War are eligible for the certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.

Because few WWII or Vietnam veterans are aware that this congressional award exists, Congressman Wu is actively seeking veterans whose service to our country deserves to be recognized.  
 
Congressman Wu will hold a recognition ceremony this year at a date, time, and venue in the 1st Congressional District to be announced, at which he will present awards to identified veterans.  To participate, eligible veterans must register before July 31, 2009.

Veterans eligible for the certificate of Special Congressional Recognition include those who reside in Oregon’s 1st Congressional District and:

• Served in the U.S. Navy assigned as a member of a gun crew on board merchant ships as part of the Naval Armed Guard Service during WWII, or
• Served in the Vietnam War and were eligible to receive either the Vietnam Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, or the Vietnam Campaign Medal.
  

To determine eligibility for the certificate, veterans must complete an application and submit a copy of their service discharge document (DD214).  This award can not be given posthumously.
 
You may download the WWII Application and the Vietnam War Application, or you may obtain the applications and more information from Ajah Maloney Capps in Congressman Wu's Oregon office by calling 503-326-2901 or 800-422-4003.  

Completed applications and documentation should be mailed to: Office of Congressman David Wu, 620 SW Main Street, Suite 606, Portland, OR  97205.