Gunner's Blog

JONES SPONSORS BILL TO INCREASE PAY TO SURVIVORS OF SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN

The men and women who die for our country make the ultimate sacrifice. Their families suffer enough with that loss. The least we can do is help ensure they can mourn their loved ones without financial worries.

Washington, D.C.- Third District Representative Walter B. Jones is pleased to announce his support as an original co-sponsor to H.R. 5055, a bill to increase the military death gratuity benefit, a one-time payment provided to the surviving family members of servicemen and women who lose their lives in battle.  The bill, introduced by Congressman Dennis Moore of Kansas, has 57 co-sponsors from both parties.

The present death gratuity benefit stands at $12,000, an amount that Congressman Jones believes is inadequate.  This bill would raise that figure to $50,000 and would be applied retroactively to all servicemen and women who have died since September 11, 2001.

'I feel so strongly that the men and women of our armed services are some of the most courageous people I know,'  Jones said.  'Those that give their lives in the line of duty to protect us and defend our freedom are American heroes and deserve our highest honors.  The absolute least we can do is make sure that their families are not additionally burdened by financial concerns after the loss of their loved one.  I am grateful to Congressman Moore for introducing this bill, and I'll do all I can to make this pass and give back to those that have already given up so much.

For additional information or to schedule an interview with Congressman Walter B. Jones please contact Kristen Quigley at (202) 225-3415.