I am so pleased that the federal economic stimulus plan’s includes $198 million for Filipino veterans who fought during World War II. Stripped of their status as U.S. Veterans through the Recession Act of 1946, Filipino veterans were denied the benefits they had been promised during the war.
Finally, after a long struggle, Filipino veterans are receiving recognition and respect as the heroes they are. Their long journey from soldier to citizen is one of the most moving, untold legacies of World War II. These funds fulfill a promise to the 15,000 surviving veterans, many of whom live right here in Los Angeles’ Historic Filipinotown.