S. 1318: Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act

This bill, titled the "Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act," aims to address the incorrect burial markers for Jewish American servicemembers who died in World War I and World War II and are buried in U.S. military cemeteries overseas. It recognizes that approximately 900 Jewish servicemembers were mistakenly buried under Latin Crosses, which do not represent their religious heritage. The legislation states that these mistakes were usually unintentional.

Key Components of the Bill

• Establishment of a Program: The American Battle Monuments Commission is directed to create a program called the "Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Program." This program will identify Jewish servicemembers buried under incorrect markers and reach out to their descendants.
• Duration: The program will operate for the first ten fiscal years following the enactment of the bill.
• Contracting with Nonprofits: The Commission is authorized to contract with nonprofit organizations to execute the objectives of the program. Contracts will be for one year with a budget of $500,000 each. Preference will be given to organizations with demonstrated experience in this area.
• Funding: The bill authorizes an annual appropriation of $500,000 during the duration of the program to support its implementation.

Definitions

In the context of the bill:

• A covered member refers to a deceased Jewish member of the Armed Forces who is buried in a U.S. military cemetery outside of the country, and whose grave marker does not correctly indicate their Jewish identity.
• A nonprofit organization must qualify under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, meaning it is recognized as a charitable organization that is exempt from federal income tax.

Congressional Findings

The bill outlines several key findings:

• Many Jewish servicemembers made significant contributions to the victories during both World Wars.
• The U.S. government holds a responsibility to honor the heritage of all servicemembers, including those mistakenly identified.
• Proper identification and acknowledgment of these servicemembers' heritage is considered vital for historical accuracy and recognition.

Relevant Companies

None found.