Higgins urges support for Veterans' Records Reconstruction Act

Congressman Brian Higgins, D-NY-26, spoke on the House Floor in support of H.R. 3397, legislation introduced by Congresswoman Lois Capps, which would create guidelines for authenticating a veteran's record through unofficial sources. After a fire at a military records warehouse in 1973, as many as 18 million veterans' records were destroyed and cannot always be recreated through other official sources.

"Veterans who have so selflessly served our nation deserve to receive the honors that they are due," Higgins said. "Passage of this legislation creating alternate pathways to authenticating their military records is the least our nation can do as an offer of our thanks for their courage and sacrifice."

Higgins' office has helped many Western New York veterans to receive overdue military service medals and recognitions. Veterans or their families are welcome to contact Higgins' office at 716-852-3501 for assistance in receiving service recognitions.

Higgins is a member of the House committees on homeland security and foreign affairs. His Western New York district includes more than 48,700 veterans.