Bill > S2195

This bill aims to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the brave women who served as nurses in the U.S. Army and Navy Nurse Corps during World War II, recognizing their extraordinary service and sacrifices. The bill provides extensive historical context, highlighting that during the war, the number of nurses grew from fewer than 2,300 to over 73,000, and these women served in extremely challenging and dangerous conditions across six continents, including near front lines, on hospital ships, and in field hospitals. Initially denied full military status and receiving only half the pay of male counterparts, these nurses worked without standard military benefits or training, often under enemy fire, with some being captured as prisoners of war, killed in action, or serving in critically dangerous environments like Bataan and Anzio. The bill specifically acknowledges the challenges faced by African-American nurses, who were subject to racial quotas and segregation. The Congressional Gold Medal will be designed by the Secretary of the Treasury, struck as a national medal, and ultimately displayed at the Smithsonian Institution and various military and memorial locations. The legislation also allows for the production and sale of bronze duplicates to cover medal production costs, serving as a lasting tribute to these courageous women who played a crucial role in saving lives and contributing to the Allied victory in World War II.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2195/all-info