Carney Introduces Legislation to Stop Theft of Veterans' Grave Markers

Press Release

CARNEY INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO STOP THEFT OF VETERANS' GRAVE MARKERS

Congressman Christopher P. Carney today introduced legislation to protect veterans' grave markers. "Our veterans have served our country with dignity; we owe them the honor of a proper burial and grave marker. I am outraged that grave markers are being stolen and not enough is being done about it. This legislation asks the Sentencing Commission to review and enhance the laws that currently protect veteran grave makers," said Congressman Carney.

Stealing veterans' grave markers has become a national and local problem. According to the Wilkes Barre Citizens Voice, 739 veterans' grave markers have been stolen from Luzerne County, one of the counties located in Pennsylvania's 10th district. Stolen grave markers are being sold to scrap yards and recycling centers as scrap metal (Citizens Voice, 7/26/07). "Our hope is that this will lead to stiffer penalties for both the thieves themselves and the scrap yards and recycling centers that knowingly take these markers," said Congressman Carney.

The May Our Veterans Rest in Peace Act of 2007 is bipartisan legislation; Congressman John Peterson of Pennsylvania joined Congressman Carney as an original cosponsor in introducing the bill.

"I am humbled by the sacrifices our service members have made over the years while defending our country. Sadly, many who have fought and defended our country, liberty and freedoms have become victims of grave marker theft. We owe our veterans and their families a tremendous amount of gratitude for the sacrifices they've made. For that, I'm glad to join Mr. Carney in offering the May Our Veterans Rest in Peace Act of 2007, which aims to stiffen penalties for the criminals that commit such atrocious acts. It's our duty to vigilantly guard what our veterans have so bravely secured by honoring and remembering their service and selflessness and this important legislation does just that," said Congressman John Peterson.

"It is my hope that this legislation will bring attention to this issue and increase the penalties for this crime so that thieves no longer consider this easy money," said Carney.

The legislation is endorsed by the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States of America, The Navy Reserve Association and the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

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