Jewish Federations applaud the U.S. Senate for passing the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act, a bipartisan measure that ensures religious symbols on the graves of America’s fallen heroes are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
 

Supported by a broad coalition of organizations, including Jewish Federations of North America, this legislation establishes a program within the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) to research, identify, and rectify historical errors which led to Jewish servicemembers being buried under Latin Crosses rather than grave markers that accurately reflect their religious identity.

 

Nearly 900 Jewish American servicemembers killed during World War I and World War II were mistakenly buried under Latin Crosses, and it is our duty to ensure that every fallen hero is properly honored. Correcting their grave markers to properly reflect their heritage is a powerful and lasting tribute to their service.

 

The bill authorizes $500,000 annually for five years to support this work by partnering with qualified nonprofit organizations.