Senator Mastriano E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Sergeant First Class George Baker, Jr. – Korean War Veteran Ceremony
  • Veterans’ Benefits & Services
  • Honoring The Life of MSG Ben Bitner
  • Fourth Annual Women Veterans Day Commemoration
  • Requiring Public Schools to Display the POW/MIA Flag
  • Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program
  • Improving Veteran Access to Homeownership

Sergeant First Class George Baker, Jr. – Korean War Veteran Ceremony

Senator Mastriano sitting with George Baker before the ceremony

It was a privilege and an honor to present Sergeant First Class George Bucher Baker Jr, a Korean War Veteran from Spring Run, PA, with the Pennsylvania Freedom Medal for his incredible sacrifice and service to our country.

George’s bravery and commitment during one of the most challenging periods in history exemplify the true spirit of patriotism and courage. We owe him and all of our veterans a debt that can never be repaid.

Thank you, George, for your service and for inspiring us all with your dedication. Your legacy will never be forgotten.

Veterans’ Benefits & Services

Veterans Benefits and Services Flyer

Click on the image above for more information.

Honoring The Life of MSG Ben Bitner

Senator Mastriano speaking in front of people at an event in downtown Greencastle.

It was an honor to speak at Greencastle’s Annual Gathering honoring Master Sergeant Ben Bitner, who gave his life in the line of duty on April 23, 2011.

Master Sergeant Bitner’s courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice reflect the very best of our nation’s service members. His legacy continues to inspire all who value duty, honor, and love of country.

We remain forever grateful for his service and for the sacrifice made by him and his family.

Fourth Annual Women Veterans Day Commemoration

Woman veteran saluting.

The fourth annual Women Veterans Day Commemoration to honor the service, sacrifice and contributions of women who have served in the U.S. military will be held at the Pennsylvania State Capitol June 10 at 11:30 a.m.

Women veterans are invited to submit a personal reflection on “What Service Means to Me” for the virtual women veterans display which will feature each veteran’s likeness along with their reflection. To be featured in this year’s virtual display, submit your information here before May 8. The virtual display will be available online here beginning June 8. Read more about this special commemoration.

Requiring Public Schools to Display the POW/MIA Flag

American and POW/MIA flags

The Senate Education Committee passed Senate Bill 835 which would require all Pennsylvania public schools already displaying the American flag to also display the POW/MIA flag.

The POW/MIA flag is a powerful symbol recognizing and honoring the courageous men and women of the Armed Forces who remain prisoners of war or missing in action. By displaying this flag, schools also demonstrate their commitment to supporting military families and educating students about the importance of service. Read more about Senate Bill 835.

Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program

Veterans women and men with prosthetics on yellow background.

Qualifying veterans can apply through their County Director of Veterans Affairs to receive $150 per month through Pennsylvania’s Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension program.

Applicants must have been a Pennsylvania resident upon entering the military; have received Honorable or Under Honorable Conditions discharge; have a service-connected injury or incurred a disease resulting in the loss or loss of use of two or more extremities; and have at least a 40% or higher disability rating compensation rating in each limb as determined and certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Find your County Director of Veterans Affairs here.

Improving Veteran Access to Homeownership

Dad holding his young daughter on his shoulders putting the USA Flag on the wall of their house.

All veterans, service members and surviving spouses applying for a VA-backed home loan can now obtain their active Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in real-time through the VA: Health and Benefits mobile app. A COE verifies eligibility for the VA Home Loan Program to lenders.

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