Pallone Holds Discussion With Veterans and Students at Neptune High School

Neptune, N.J. --- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) held a discussion today with local veterans and students at Neptune High School in Neptune. During the discussion, Pallone also announced the introduction of legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives that encourages a dialogue between students and war veterans.

The New Jersey congressman was joined at the event by two local military veterans, Korean War veteran James Manning of Neptune and World War II veteran Lou Parisi of Asbury Park. Manning and Parisi shared some of their war stories with an 11th grade American history class. Manning served as a paratrooper during the Korean War as part of the Army Airborne Division in Korea and Japan. Parisi served in the Marine Corps in Okinawa during the invasion of Japan.

"At a time when our soldiers are in harms way, its important that our young people are educated about the sacrifices these brave men and women make everyday," Pallone said. "I hope that by hearing from Jim and Lou today, these high school students gain a greater appreciation for their contributions to our nation's history."

During the event, Pallone announced the introduction of legislation that designates November 10th as Veterans Educate Today's Students (VETS) Day and encourages schools and civic leaders to schedule events that facilitate a dialogue between students and veterans.

Pallone's bill urges schools to set aside a portion of VETS Day to hold events, similar to today's event, where veterans are invited to classes to answer students' questions about military service and convey their wartime experiences. The bill was introduced last week with the support of 55 of Pallone's House colleagues.

"Hearing a veterans personal story of their service during war time helps to bring our nation's history to life," Pallone said to the students. "Our state has monuments that stand to honor those who served our nation in its times of need. But for these memorials to retain their meaning, we must remember the sacrifices our soldiers made to protect our nation's freedom."