Wilson Introduces the National Guardsmen and Reservists Parity for Patriots Act
Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) released the following statement after introducing H.R. 2907, the National Guardsmen and Reservists Parity for Patriots Act last Thursday. This bill amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (FY08 NDAA) to repair a loophole in eligibility for National Guard and Reserve members to receive credit towards early retirement by including any active duty service with the exception of active duty training since September 11th, 2001. Current eligibility only applies to service following the enactment of the FY08 NDAA on January 28, 2008.
"Since our nation was attacked on September 11, 2001, the National Guard and Reserve have played an integral role in overseas contingency operations and in other emergency situations. Whether these brave men and women were putting their lives on the line during heavy combat in Iraq and Afghanistan or tending to devastating natural disasters at home like Hurricane Katrina, each of our Guard and Reserve members deserve to receive appropriate recognition for their active duty service. As a 31-year veteran of the South Carolina Army National Guard, I will continue to advocate for all of our Armed Forces and ensure that Congress honors the tremendous sacrifices made by each of our military personnel and their families," Congressman Wilson said.
*A copy of the bill can be found here.