Response to American Legion Denying Merchant Marine Veteran Recognition

Mr. Rubenstein’s attempt to rationalize discrimination of Merchant Marine Veterans is disturbing. These Veterans, who performed outstandingly in a time of need and sacrifice during WWII died at the rate of 1 in 26 which is the highest rate of casualties in any of the services, left a legacy which must be remembered. 

He states that the Memorial in Veterans Park is only for military service organizations. Read its inscription: “Dedicated in honor and memory for all brave Veterans who served this country so that we may enjoy freedom and the beauty here forever.” Veterans Park is inclusive of all Veterans. Discriminating against a single group is wrong. 

It is absurd to compare 15 year olds fighting for their country trading shells with U-Boats to lucratively paid private security contractors. Mostly non-governmental hires providing maintenance and transportation with NO Combat Missions, they are not Veterans.  

CFR title 38: Service by the American Merchant Marine in oceangoing service during the period of armed conflict 1941 to 1945 as active duty in World War II. Dept. of Veterans Affairs M21-1 Merchant Marine service in WWII: Eligible for benefits in the same manner as any other Veteran including receiving discharge certificates (DD214). Deemed active duty for all burial benefits (Arlington National Cemetery). 

American Legion Posts include the Merchant Marine all over the country. Cape Coral recognizes them with monuments, displays and flag. 

To dishonor these Mariner Veterans by barring them from Veterans events inside our Veterans Park is improper and trying to rationalize this should be embarrassing to such a fine organization.