Excerpts from "Call to Action" by Bill Schaaf, MIAP/VRP State Coordinator:
The purpose of the MIAP/VRP is to locate, identify and inter the unclaimed cremated remains of American veterans through the joint efforts of private, state and federal organizations. To provide honor and respect to those who have served this country by securing a final resting place for these forgotten heroes.
In New York State – the efforts of the MIAP/VRP fall under guidance and direction of the Patriot Guard Riders of New York.
At this point in New York, current Department of Health regulations prevent the funeral directors from fully participating in the endeavor to bury these unclaimed cremains of veterans. The DOH regulations pretty much hand cuff the funeral director and our efforts here in New York. So for the last 18 months our efforts in New York have slowed to a crawl.
GOOD NEWS - With the efforts of the New York MIAP/VRP, and the New York State Funeral Director’s Association, we have finally been able to get legislation introduced that will permit and protect funeral directors in their efforts to inter our forgotten veterans. Such legislation has been crafted and is out of The Committee for Veteran’s Affairs and is working its way thru the legislative law making process. Click here for the link to the NYS Assembly website where you can read this bill and understand the implications.
THIS IS NOW YOUR CALL TO ACTION: You and everyone else you know, can now contact you local NYS Assemblyman or State Senator and let them know you support Assembly Bill 10754.
Contact your local VFW Post, American Legion Post, and any other veteran or non-veteran related fraternal organization and let them know about this legislation. Contact the other motorcycle clubs you come in contact with, HOG Chapters, Rolling Thunder, Combat Vets, Vietnam Vets, Leathernecks MC, Blue Knights, Red Knights etc. Encourage them to get on board and make their voices heard, not only to the local legislators but to our state wide officials as well.
From the people in positions to know - no opposition to this bill is expected but we need to make sure our voices are heard - so let them hear your voice - now and often. Make one phone call – then follow up with another to inquire about what THEY have done.
Mark you calendars: - The third MIAP/VRP interment ceremony will take place this coming June 11th, Friday of Americade week, 10:00am at Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, New York.
Related Stories:
Buffalo News - "Seeking a final resting place for unclaimed veterans" by Lou Michel
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