May 24, 2012 Dear Friends, Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner and millions of Americans will be gearing up for barbecues, travel, and family functions. While the long weekend is a good time for rest and relaxation, it is important that we remember the true significance of this holiday. First enacted in 1868 to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in the Civil War, Memorial Day has since been expanded to commemorate all U.S. men and women who have died in military service. To those who answered their nation's call, who served with strength, honor, and courage, we owe an impossible debt of gratitude. We take this day to honor our friends, family, and neighbors in uniform who have made the ultimate sacrifice. There are many ways to show your appreciation for our nation's military and honor the spirit of the holiday, whether it is writing letters to injured soldiers in the hospital, sending care packages to troops overseas, or volunteering in our community. Not sure where to start? The U.S. government has many resources available on how you can help: Last Monday, I co-sponsored a “Fix-it” meeting for nearly 300 veterans whose claims for disability benefits have been backlogged or delayed at the Oakland VA. Veterans are waiting an average of 320 days to receive a decision on disability benefits claims from the Oakland. Congresswoman Barbara Lee and I brought Claims Representatives to the War Memorial Veterans Building to help participating veterans work on their claims. June Carter speaks on behalf of Jake Ventrella, a 93-year-old WWII veteran Check out Joining Forces, Michelle Obama and Jill Biden's initiative to mobilize volunteers and give our service members and their families the opportunities and support they have earned. Use the US Post Office's guidelines on sending items to our troops stationed overseas. Find service member support organizations by clicking here. No matter how much time you have, or on what scale you can show your appreciation, I urge you to take some time this Memorial Day to give thanks to veterans, members now in uniform, and their families. All the best, Unsubscribe Washington D.C. Office 211 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-3531 Fax: (202) 226-4183 San Mateo Office 400 S. El Camino Real, Suite 410 San Mateo, CA 94402 Phone: (650) 342-0300 Fax: (650) 375-8270