“As we prepare to celebrate Memorial Day, I would like to ask all Pennsylvanians to join me in thanking our veterans and soldiers for their service and dedication. America's soldiers and veterans have served with honor, bravery, and valor.  

“They have stood on the front lines in defense of our nation, and as we celebrate Memorial Day we should use this opportunity to thank them for their dedication.

“It is especially important to acknowledge the tremendous service of Pennsylvania troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over 9,600 Pennsylvania soldiers are currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Sadly, 131 Pennsylvania soldiers have given their lives and 861 others have been wounded while deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. We must not forget the commitment and courage shown by these men and women.

“As the daughter of a Korean War veteran, I take very personally my responsibility to ensure that our troops receive the respect that their service has earned them. In Congress, I have been a steadfast supporter of our men and women in uniform.”  

Earlier this week, on Monday, May 22, Representative Schwartz hosted a medals ceremony at her Philadelphia district office to honor several local veterans for their service.

Schwartz awarded Vietnam Veteran Ed Cubbage, of Mayfair, with several medals in recognition of his service. She presented Mr. Cubbage with a Bronze Star Medal & Letter V Device, a Purple Heart, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, a Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award, a Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, and a Parachutist Badge – Basic.

Schwartz presented World War II veteran, Frederick Petry, of the Sandyford Park neighborhood, with several medals in honor of his service. She presented Mr. Petry with an American Campaign Award, a Pacific Campaign Award, and a World War II Victory Medal.

Schwartz also presented Mr. Cubbage and Mr. Petry each with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol.  

In addition, Schwartz presented Albert Morgan, of Oreland, with a Purple Heart in the name of his brother, Sergeant William Morgan. Sergeant Morgan was killed in action during World War II. Schwartz also presented Mr. Morgan with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol.

On Memorial Day, Schwartz will be participating in several events in support of veterans. In the morning, she will speaking at a Memorial Day flag raising ceremony hosted by Veterans and Friends of the Village of Neshaminy Falls in Montgomeryville. In the afternoon, Schwartz will be marching in the Somerton Civic Association Memorial Day Parade.

Serving in her first term in Congress, Schwartz has led several efforts on behalf of our nation’s service men and women.  One of her key legislative initiatives, the Veterans Employment and Respect Act, would provide tax credits to businesses hiring returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan. Schwartz also has spoken out repeatedly against cuts in veterans’ health care, and has voted in strong support of fully funding veterans’ health care.

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