Senate backs aid for travel to memorial services

WASHINGTON — The Senate has approved a measure by Sen. Jon Tester, a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to help American families attend memorial services for loved ones killed in action.

Tester’s amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill would allow the U.S. Defense Department to assist families with transportation expenses when traveling to a loved one’s memorial service. The department currently can help with travel to burial services, but not memorial services.

The measure must be considered by the House. “Our troops and our veterans have earned the respect and admiration of a grateful nation,” said Tester, D-Mont., who also is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee that oversees funding for defense. “But the families of folks who serve this country have earned our nation’s support and respect, as well.”