Westmoreland Review

A new memorial dedicated to Gold Star families is set to be established on the Pennsylvania Capitol grounds. This initiative, part of Act 145 of 2024, aims to honor families who have lost loved ones in military service. The memorial will feature four granite slabs inscribed with "Gold Star Family Memorial Monument, a tribute to Gold Star Mothers, Fathers, and Relatives who have sacrificed a Loved One for our Freedom."

Each slab will depict themes of homeland, family, patriotism, and sacrifice. These elements were designed by the Woody Williams Foundation, which has installed similar monuments across the U.S., ensuring no cost to taxpayers due to an agreement with the MI Charitable Foundation.

Hershel “Woody” Williams, a Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima, inspired this initiative. The act is among several legislative measures supporting veterans passed during the 2023-24 session. Act 71 creates a link between a voluntary veterans registry and county Veterans Affairs offices. Other acts support military families with school enrollment and tuition stability.

Veterans can access services through certified veteran service officers at district offices in New Kensington and Washington Township/Export. Walk-ins are welcome or appointments can be made for monthly events.

In related news, six new military-themed license plates are available under Act 60 of 2024 from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. These include plates recognizing individual achievements and women veterans.

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced that applications for the $1.16 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program are open until January 21st. This federal program seeks to expand broadband access across unserved areas in Pennsylvania.

For more information on these initiatives or assistance with veteran services or license plate applications, contact Representative Jill Cooper's offices.