From the Statehouse 2008 No. 23
by Jennifer Garrison
Jul. 3, 2008
From the Statehouse: Honoring our Veterans and Active Duty Military on Independence Day
July 3, 2008
More than a million veterans, and tens of thousands of military members on active duty, call Ohio home. These soldiers, Marines, airmen and Guard members have answered the call to serve in warzones in Iraq and Afghanistan, and they have contributed to relief efforts during domestic disasters such as Hurricane Katrina. They continue the tradition of service that has endured as the foundation for the strongest country in the world. These men and women honor us all with their selflessness and sacrifice in the name of keeping America safe and free.
Our servicemen and women deserve our utmost respect and admiration. To that end, the Ohio House of Representatives took several significant steps this year to show that appreciation.
Most recently, the General Assembly passed legislation that creates Ohio’s new Department of Veteran’s Services. This new, Cabinet-level office combines existing state veterans’ offices to provide a single home to the resources available in the State of Ohio for its veterans, while increasing the state’s ability to leverage federal dollars to support these important services.
Substitute Senate Bill 289 created the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, which will begin official operations in August, to improve the administration of veterans’ benefit programs and services in Ohio. Increased accountability and oversight of benefit programs, coupled with improved communications between the state and military personnel, will allow Ohio veterans to receive the support they need and deserve when they return home from active duty service.
I was also able to win support for an amendment to honor a local serviceman killed in the Vietnam War by designating State Route 660 in Guernsey County the “Major James W. Reed Memorial Highway.” The U.S. Air Force considered Major Reed, a Cambridge native, missing in action for several years until his remains were eventually discovered. The request for this dedication came from a long-time friend, Harry Hitchcock, along with support from Major Reed’s surviving sister, Joan Shaw, the Guernsey County Veterans Service Commission and the Guernsey County Commissioners.
It is fitting that the legislative language needed to honor Major James W. Reed was attached to a bill that signifies our commitment to all our military heroes. I believe the creation of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services shows how seriously we take our mission to honor our servicemen and women.
Governor Strickland signed the SB 289 into law, backed by unanimous support of the House and Senate, including my “yes” vote.
Separately, Substitute Senate Bill 150 allows liquor permit holders to accept military ID Cards containing a picture and date of birth for the purchase of alcohol in lieu of a State ID card. SB 150 makes a common sense change to Ohio’s liquor control laws and removes an unnecessary burden many servicemen and women face when they leave base, often to visit friends and family while on leave.
I supported this legislation with my “yes” vote as it passed out of the House by an overwhelming majority. The bill was signed into law by Governor Strickland and takes effect on September 1st.
The United States military protects our freedom around the globe 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And while they serve their country under often dangerous conditions, we must support them and their families here at home in Ohio. These heroes deserve nothing less than our best effort as they give their best effort in defense of liberty.
You can reach Jennifer Garrison at her Columbus office at (614) 644-8728, in the district at 373-2414 or by e-mail at jennifer@jennifergarrison.com. Her website is Riffe Center | 77 South High Street | Columbus Ohio 43215-6111 | (800) 282-0253 | District93@ohr.state.oh.us
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