Navy Veteran Legislators Work Across the Aisle to Recognize United States Navy

Harrisburg, PA – September 6, 2019 – Today, Senator Pam Iovino (D-Allegheny/Washington) and Rep. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Washington), both Navy veterans, introduced two pieces of legislation to recognize the United States Navy and its decorated veterans.

Bi-partisan legislation was introduced in both the Senate and House to honor the recipients of the prestigious Navy and Marine Corps Medal by creating their own special license plate. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combat decoration awarded for heroism by the U.S Navy and Marine Corps. Under this proposal, any recipient of the Navy and Marine Corps Medal may apply for their special license plate through PennDOT, accompanied by a fee of $20.

The second item was a bi-partisan resolution concurrently introduced in both the Senate and House formally recognizing October 13, 2019 as the 244th birthday of the United States Navy. On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress established a naval force, hoping the small fleet would be able to offset the uncontested exercise of British sea power. Although the Continental Navy was later dismantled, October 13, 1775, remains the U.S. Navy’s official birthday. From those humble beginnings, the world’s most powerful Naval force was born.

“Over the course of its 244-year history, the U.S. Navy has been a force for good all around the world. Navy and Marine Corps Medal recipients have been at the forefront of that mission,” said Senator Iovino. “As a 23-year veteran, the Navy has played a key role in my life by instilling the core values of honor, courage, and commitment. I am proud to work across the aisle and across the Capitol building with my fellow Navy colleague to give the Navy and some of its most highly decorated the recognition they deserve.”

“Our Commonwealth has been blessed with dedicated service members and veterans in all branches of the military, and they deserve our recognition and thanks for their sacrifices,” said Representative Mihalek. “As a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, I consider it an honor and privilege to help ensure the outstanding men and women who earned the Navy and Marine Corps Medal have the same opportunity.

As we mark the 244th birthday of the Navy, we know it is the people who stepped up to serve who make this celebration possible.”