Recent Press Releases

Washington, D.C. —  Senator John Thune today announced the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved companion legislation to his bipartisan bill, S. 824, to authorize an extension for a Disabled Veterans Memorial.

"Establishing this memorial will demonstrate our nation's commitment to those veterans who have been disabled in battle," said Thune. "I testified before the Energy and Natural Resources Committee in support of my version of this bill and I am glad they acted quickly to approve this legislation. I expect the full Senate to do the same."

The original bill authorizing the establishment of a National Disabled Veterans Memorial passed the Senate by unanimous consent in October of 2000, but expires after seven years. Senator Thune's legislation would extend this authorization to October 24, 2015.

The Disabled Veterans Memorial will be funded through private donations and will not take any money away from veterans benefit programs. Senator Byron Dorgan, Senator Tim Johnson, and Senator Olympia Snowe are cosponsors of the bill.

"All veterans, particularly those disabled in service, have given so much to our nation. It is only right that we recognize their sacrifice and courage," said Thune.