HARRISBURG — Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) today announced the introduction of a resolution designating June 2026 as the “Month of the American Soldier” in Pennsylvania. As chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, Mastriano crafted the measure in recognition of the U.S. Army’s founding on June 14, 1775, and in honor of the generations of Pennsylvania soldiers whose valor and devotion to duty have shaped the course of American history.
“Whenever the causes of freedom and liberty have been threatened, we have had patriots willing to stand up and defend them,” said Mastriano. “I encourage all Pennsylvania residents to show appreciation to the soldiers in their lives this month and take a moment to reflect upon the legacy, patriotism and sacrifice of American soldiers and their families.”
The resolution recognizes both soldiers and the families who stand behind them, including spouses who endure long separations, parents who carry the weight of uncertainty, children who grow up in the absence of deployed mothers and fathers and Gold Star families who bear the immeasurable pain of loss.
It also spotlights the stories of soldiers from Pennsylvania who served as guardians of democracy, including:
- Col. Strong Vincent of Erie, whose courageous leadership and noble sacrifice at Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg helped secure the Union flank at a pivotal moment in the Civil War.
- Staff Sgt. Robert E. Laws of Altoona, who received the Medal of Honor during World War II after repeatedly charging heavily fortified enemy positions in the Philippines despite suffering multiple wounds.
- Specialist Ross A. McGinnis of Knox, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor during operation Iraqi Freedom after sacrificing his life by throwing himself onto an enemy grenade inside his vehicle, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers through an act of extraordinary courage.
Senate Resolution 328 — which was introduced along with fellow veterans Sens. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24), Devlin Robinson (R-37), Greg Rothman (R-34) and Gene Yaw (R-23) — is now under consideration by the Senate Rules and Executive Nominations Committee.
“As we commemorate the 251st birthday of the U.S. Army, we also honor the generations of American soldiers who have answered the call to serve our nation with courage, sacrifice and unwavering dedication,” Pennycuick said. “Pennsylvania has a proud military heritage dating back to the founding of our country, and the men and women who have worn the Army uniform have played a vital role in defending our freedoms and preserving our way of life. Designating June 2026 as the ‘Month of the American Soldier’ is a fitting tribute to their service and an opportunity for all Pennsylvanians to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of our soldiers, past and present.”
“As a veteran who comes from a long line of proud military service dating back decades, I’m honored to sign on to support this resolution to recognize the accomplishments, bravery and sacrifice of American soldiers and their families,” Robinson said. “As we approach our nation’s semiquincentennial, it’s only fitting that we recognize that this milestone celebration wouldn’t be possible without generations of patriots devoting their lives to serve their fellow Americans and fight to preserve the country we all call home.”
“Throughout our nation’s history, the American soldier fought for, protected and preserved our freedoms with courage and valor,” Rothman said. “As we recognize ‘The Month of the American Soldier’ in Pennsylvania, we pay tribute to the men and women who bravely safeguard the liberties we cherish. We are grateful for their service and for the families who stand beside them each and every day, this month and throughout the year.”
“Pennsylvania has a long and proud tradition of military service, with generations of brave soldiers answering the call to defend our great nation,” Yaw said. “The ‘Month of the American Soldier’ is an opportunity to honor those who have worn the uniform and their families who have supported them through sacrifice and service. We owe a debt of gratitude to these men and women, and I’m honored to join in their recognition.”
Video of Mastriano’s Senate floor remarks in support of Senate Resolution 328 can be found here.