Washington, D.C. – Today, the American Legion announced its endorsement of the Jax Act (H.R. 1753), sponsored by Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48), which will amend the military records of women veterans deployed alongside Special Forces soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq but were never recognized for their service. leading to the denial of rank, benefits, and critical health care services.
The American Legion’s Executive Director Chanin Nunvatong said: “The overlooked role of women who served on Cultural Support Teams alongside Special Operations units is a significant concern. Their contributions to combat missions have not been adequately recognized, denying them the status and benefits they’ve rightly earned. The moral injury and the denial of combat-related treatment and disability benefits cannot continue. Therefore, The American Legion stands strongly behind the Jax Act, a critical measure to reclassify these brave women as combat veterans. We applaud Congressman Issa’s leadership in championing this pivotal legislation, advocating for the rightful recognition and treatment of our nation’s heroes.”
“The Jax Act isn’t just about amending a personnel file. It’s about telling the truth, recognizing courage under fire, and fighting for those who fought for all of us,” said Rep. Issa. “While the bill is named for ‘Jax’ Scott, literally hundreds of brave women soldiers were asked to volunteer for the most dangerous missions, did so without hesitation, and now need us to set this right.”
Congressman Issa was joined by House colleagues Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), and Jason Crow (CO-06) to introduce the Jax Act back in March.
The bill text can be found here.
