Jewish Federations of North America applaud the passage of the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act. Supported by a broad coalition of organizations, including Jewish Federations of North America, this legislation establishes a program within the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) to research, identify, and rectify historical errors which led to Jewish servicemembers being buried under Latin Crosses rather than grave markers that accurately reflect their religious identity.

 

Nearly 900 Jewish American servicemembers killed during World War I and World War II were mistakenly buried under Latin Crosses, and it is our duty to ensure that every fallen hero is properly honored. Correcting their grave markers to properly reflect their heritage is a powerful and lasting tribute to their service.

 

The bill, whose companion in the Senate (S.1318) will now be taken up for consideration, authorizes $500,000 annually for five years to support this work by partnering with qualified nonprofit organizations.

 

Jewish Federations thank Rep. Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (D-FL) and Rep. Max Miller (R-OH) for co-sponsoring this legislation and for their leadership on this important issue and call on the Senate to adopt it.