Bill > HR2719

This bill, known as the "Staff Sergeant John D. Martek Purple Heart Restoration Act," proposes to expand the eligibility for the Purple Heart medal to veterans who experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) during military service as a result of an enemy action on or after December 7, 1941. Specifically, the bill allows veterans to receive the Purple Heart if they have either a service-connected disability resulting from the TBI (as determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs) or a military record documenting the occurrence of the TBI. Each military branch will be required to establish a process for veterans to submit applications for the Purple Heart, and they must award the medal to eligible applicants regardless of when the traumatic brain injury occurred. This legislation aims to recognize and honor veterans who have suffered brain injuries in combat or as a result of enemy actions, extending the same recognition previously given to those wounded or killed in action. The bill uses standard legal definitions of "service-connected" and "veteran" from existing federal law and represents an effort to provide greater acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by service members who have sustained traumatic brain injuries during military service.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2719/all-info