1944 . CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE 4731 The motion was agreed to; and the UNITED STATES PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE Help those who struggle with pride, with Senate proceeded to. the consideration · The following-named officers for promotion avarice •.with irritable passions, and all of executive business. in the Regular Corps of the United States who strive against the narrowing lust for Public Health Servi9e: EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED. gold. PASSED ASSISTANT SmtGEONS TO BE TEMPORARY In all counsels and deliberations be The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. JACK SURGEONS EFFECTIVE APRU. 1, 19'\4 very near our President, our Speaker, SON in the chair) laid before the Senate Terrence E. Billings Robert c. Dunn and the Congress. Grant that the world messages from the President of the Harold T. Oastberg Randall B. Haas may soon hail that joyous day in which United States, which were referred to the Louis F. Cleary Leon S. Saler there shall be no more idols, no more appropriate committees. Vernam T. Davis Clarence A. Smith superstition nor ignorance, and no more (For nominations this day received, Wightman R. Duke Richard H. Smith Robert D. Duncan unjust oppression, and all lands shall rest see the end of Senate proc~edings.) in peace among themselves. Grant that EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF A COMMITTEE ASSISTANT SURGEONS TO BE TEMPORARY PASSED we may be burden bearers for one an ASSISTANT SURGEONS EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 1944 other, suffer and live f.or one another, Mr. McKELLAR, from the Committee James L. Baker Robert E. Miller bringing them out of unbelief into the on Post Offices and Post Roads, reported - Donald J. Birmingham Charles W. Park~r communion with the people of God. favorably the nominations of sundry Paul C. Campbell, Jr. Russell I. Pierce John F. Flynn, Jr. Robert T. Potter Help us all, blessed Lord, to gain strength postmasters. and grow in those virtues which make The PRESIDING OFFICER. If there Wllliam D. HazlehurstDavid E. Price Richard G. Henderson Edmund J. Schmidt wise and better servants for the public be no further reports of committees, the Robert V. Holman Charles C. Shepard weal. In the name of the Master of all clerk will proceed to state the nomina- James M. Hundley Charles L. Williams good workmen. Amen. tions on the calendar. · Llewellyn E. Kling Jr. FOREIGN SERVICE Edward W. Kunckel Norman Wagner The Journal of the proceedings of yes Harold J. Magnuson terday was read and approved. The legislative clerk read the nomi nation of Tyler Thompson, of New York, ASSISTANT SANITARY ENGINEERS TO BE TEMPORARY I AM AN AMERICAN DAY-MAY 21 to be consul. PASSED ASSISTANT SANITARY ENGINEERS EF• Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, I ask FECTIVE APRIL 1, 1944. unanimous consent to address the House The PRESIDING OFFICER. With Callis H. Atkins out objection, the nomination is con August T. Rossano, Jr. for 1 minute. firmed. The SPEAKER. Without objection, it PASSED ASSISTANT SANITARY ENGINEERS TO BE is so ordered. The legislative clerk read the nomi TEMPORARY SANITARY ENGINEERS EFFECTIVE nation of Miss Kathleen Molesworth, of There was no objection. APRIL 1, 1944 [Mr. KENNEDY addressed the House. Texas, to .be Foreign Service officer of Vernon G. MacKenzie class 1. Frank E. DeMartini His remarks a·ppear in the Appendix.] PERMISSION TO ADDRESS THE ·HOUSE The PRESIDING OFFICER. With IN THE NAVY out objection, the nomination is con Capt. George T. Owen, United States Navy, Mr. EBERHARTER. Mr. Speaker, I . firmed. to be a commodore in the Navy, for temporary ask unanimous consent that on today, at POSTMASTERS service, to continue while serving as com the conclusion of the special orders here The legislative clerk read the nomi . mander, Fleet Air Wing 15, and commanding tofore entered, I may address the House nation of M. Evorie Kirkham, to be post officer, naval air station, Port Lyautey. for 15 minutes. master at Delight, Ark. Vice Admiral Marc A. · Mitscher, United The SPEAKER. Without objection,· it States Navy, to be a vice admiral in the Navy, The PRESIDING OFFICER. With for. temporary service, to rank from the 21st is so ordered. out objection, the nomination Is con day of March 1944. There was no objection. firmed. Rear Admiral John H. Hoover, United States Mr. HOFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask Mr. McKELLAR. r ask unanimous Navy, to be a vice admiral in the Navy, for unanimous consent that today, following consent that the President be notified temporary service, to rank from the 1st day of the statement of the gentleman from forthwith of all nominations confirmed January 1943; Pennsylvania [Mr. EBERHARTER], I may today. address the House for 15 minutes. The· PRESIDING OFFICER. With CONFIRMATIONS The SPEAKER. Without objection, it out objection, the President will be noti Executive nominations confirmed by is so ordered. fied forthwith. the Senate May 19 (legislative day, May There was no objection. . Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask RECESS 9)' 1944: unanimous consent that I may . address Mr. GEORGE. As in legislative ses FOREIGN SERVICE the House for 20 minutes today, follow sion, I move that the Senate take a re Tyler Thompson to be consul of the ing the gentleman from Michigan. cess until 11 o'clock a. m. tomorrow. 'qnited States of America. The SPEAKER. Without objection, it Much as I regret to do so, I give notice Miss Kathleen Molesworth to be Foreign Service officer of class 7, effective November is so ordered. that the Senate will remain in session to There was no objection. morrow until a late hour, at least, in an 16, 1943. . effort to reach a vote on the pending POSTMASTER DEWEY PLAN FOR INTERNATIONAL ECO bill. ARKANSAS NOMIC AND CURRENCY STABILIZATION The motion was agreed to; and "How much will it require out of the to the American people, an~ to those who erans did not have any limitation as to Treasury of the United States to pay for are interested in the status of the Treas income? all the veterans' benefits already pro ury of the United States. Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. No; vided but not inclmiing the $6,000,000,000 · Mr. McCORMACK. Will the gentle no limitation, at least I know that for G. I. bill of rights passed yesterday?'' man yield? years there has been no income limita- He said he figured it would cost .about Mr. FISH. I yield to the gentleman tion. · $2,000,000,000. annually. In addition to from Massachusetts. Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. That was that you have other legislation we have Mr. McCORMACK. Just that the the act of September 1, 1918. It did con passed or are about to pass, including this RECORD may clearly and definitely ex tain a limitation. bill. Frankly I do not know, but I sup~ press the position of the. gentleman from Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. I had pose the committee will give the House New York on the bill, not his views, his for'gotten that. I was not a Member of the information, how much money this position, I take it he is in favor of the Congress at that time. bill-if passed, as I believe it wiil be al.:. passage of the bill? Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Later on most unanimously-will cost. I believe Mr. FISH. If I have not stated it I the Veterans' Bureau that handled it at the House is entitled to the information. want to make that very clear; and I will that time found that it cost more to ad Mr. DONDERO. Mr. Speaker, will the do it by my vote at the proper time, as I minister the law with that limitation in it gentleman yield? _generally do. I am willing to have a roll than w,e saved and later on Congress re Mr. FISH. In one moment. call on this bill if the gentleman wantS' pealed the provision. Mr. Speaker, we might as well make to have one. Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. up our minds that the total cost of this The SPEAKER. The time of the gen Does the gentleman remember the lim veterans' legislation before the war is tleman has expired. itation for Spanish-American widows? over will run well upward of $2,000,000,- Mr. FISH. Mr. Speaker, I yield such Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. I think 000 and probably immediately after the . time as she may desire to the ge-ntle- . it was the small sum of an income· of war to five or six billions. .woman from Massachusetts [Mrs. $250. Under this measure every widow Mr. MASON. Per year? ROGERS]. that comes within the provisions of this Mr. FISH. Per year, right after the Mrs. ROGERS of. Massachusetts. Mr. law will have to prove that her income is war. That takes in the demobilization, Speaker, this bill will pass unanimously. not more than $1,000? separation allowances, and all other vet A similar bill passed the House in the Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. eran benefits we have provided for. In last session of Congress. May I point That is true. She has to prove that, as the first year after the war it will be five out that the Spanish-American w ·ar vet I stated before. or six billions. erans' widows received a pension at the Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. The I now yield to the gentleman from time of the death of a Spanish-American burden is on the widow. That may turn Michigan·. War veteran, whether he died from serv out to be more costly than the savings, as · Mr. DONDERO. How do the amounts ice-conqected disability or not, 18 years we found out in the original Spanish provided in this bill compare with what after the war was over. The widows of American War Veterans' Act. . was allowed the widows and orphans of the veterans of the Philippine Insurrec Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. But the Spanish-American War? tion received a pension 16 years after the the limitation is in the bill today. In Mr. FISH. I believe it is based on the war was over. The veterans of the First the bill which was enacted in 1918 for same percentage. I would prefer, how World War, when the House votes today the widows of Spani3h-American War ever, that the committee explain the de and this bill is signed by the President, veterans, there was a limitation of a tails of the bill. I am giving just a gen will receive pension benefits approxi small sum. In the next bill for Spanish eral sketch, which is in order under the mately 25 years after that war was over. American War widows which became law consideration of the rule. There was no dependency clause in the in 1922 there was no limitation. There is one other phase that was bill that gave a pension to the Spanish The following is the chart of the bene brought out in the Committee on Rules, American War widows. Nothing was fits which have been paid and which will' in fact I brought it up myself, which I necessary except that a woman be the be paid if this bill becomes law to think is important for the House to widow of a Spanish-American War vet the widows of veterans of all wars, and a know. There .is a safeguard in the bill eran. In this bill there is a dependency part of the testimony of General Hines against young and attractive ladies clause. A single widow must· not have an which appears in the hearings of the marrying older veterans like myself who income over a thousand dollars in order World War Veterans' Committee upon are on O]lr way out, so to speak-not po to secure benefits. A widow with de this measure: litically but I am thinking of the other pendents-one or more dependents General HINES. That is a straight pension world-and who would secure this gen must not have an income of over $2,500. bill. All of these are straight pension bills erous sum of $30 a month. So a safe The cost of the bill will be limited quite and have no relation to service-connected guard was placed in the bill that they a good deal in that way. cases. must be married before this law goes into Many of these widows are older women They also, in that case, amended the law effect. We have fixed it so these young and this will be a great help to them in from time to time. The next amendment was 20 years after the war, then 24 years ladies will not be able to marry some of carrying on, whether they have depend after, 31 years after, 32 years after, and, these older veterans just to acquire the ents or not. Many of them are on relief finally, the last act was August 13, 1935, pension. today. 33 years after the war, when they reenacted The SPEAKER. The time of the gen The following are the monthly rates of the repealed law, which provided a rate of tleman from New York has expired. compensation to be paid to the widows $30 for the widow and $6 for the child. Mr. FISH. Mr. Speaker, regretfully, I under this bill: In most of those cases there was no finan must yield myself 1 additional minute .. Widow but no child, $30. cial restriction. By that I mean there was Widow with one child, $38, with $4 for each no needs clause, as it is referred to, except Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Will in some of the early ones-the first act of the the gentleman yield? · additional child. No widow but one child, $15. Civil War and the Eecond of the Civil War Mr. FISH. I yield to the gentlewoman No widow with two children, $22, equally , and the first act of the Spanish War. But from Massachusetts. divided. they dropped it after that. As to the small Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Of No widow but three children, $30, equally number of Spanish War cases under Public, course, it would be difficult to estimate divided (with $3 for each additional child; No. 2, and the Veterans Regulations, an In total amount to be equally divided). come limitation is applicable for service the cost of this because of the depend pension purposes. ency clause. The total compensation payable shall not exceed $64. Now, as to World War No. 1, some members Mr. FISH. That is true, but does not of the commit tee, particularly the members the gentlewoman think the House is en Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Will the who have been here any length of time, will titled to an estimate? gentlewoman yield? remember that we st art ed off on what might Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. I Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. I be called a substitute for a pension by first think it is, but it is very difficult to get yield to the gentleman from Kentucky. putting the widows and children on the rolls of men who had a 30-percent service-con- an estimate sometimes. Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Did I nected disability or more. · Mr. FISH. I hope the gentlewoman's understand the gentlewoman from Mas The theory upon which we proceeded then committee wm try to give us that esti sachusetts to say that the first act for -was that if a man had that m'Uch of a serv mate because it is only fair to the House, widows of Spanish-American War vet- ice-connected disabillty it certainly contrib- 1944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD--HOUSE 4735 uted to his death, no matter what he died Then from time to time we have amended Chairman, look high when compared with from. And that, to me, was sound reason that. The next step was to cut the 30 per the others and look high when compared ing, and that was the basis of the law that cent down to 20. Finally we cut it from 20 with the service-connected rates. They are we passed. to 10 percent disability, ·and thEm any percent the same as the rates tn Public, 484, as That was Public, 484, Seventy-third Con disability. The existing law at the present amended. gress, passed 16 years after the end of the time for the purpose of World War No. 1 in I would like to insert in the record, 1f it World War hostilities. It provided that the cludes any World War service-conne·cted-dis will not be burdensome, a table that I am entry into the service must have 'been prior ability. If he has any disability, service to November 12, 1918, and ·before April 2, connected, and he dies, not· of that disability, using which contains a chronological digest 1920, for service in Russia, and under exist but any disability, his widow and children of laws granting pension or compensation for ing law 90 days' service is required if the are taken care of. . non-service-connected death. service-connected disability at time of death The rates have been changed somewhat. The CHAIRMAN. Go ahead and put it ln. was less than 10 percent in degree. The rates in the proposed legislation, Mr. - (The table referred to is as follows:~ Historical development of service pensions and compensation or non-service-con??-ected death for wtdows and children of Civil War. Spanish-American War, and World War No. 1 ve,terans~ includring rates and certain elements of entitlement, compared with_ com pensation tor widows a~ children of World War _veterans who die from non-servtce-connected cause, as proposed by btLLs oj Seventy-eighth Congress Period between end Rate for Period between end of war and Income and dependency limitations of war and law widow Rate for child delimiting marriage date I ------1! ------l------l------:------Civil War (Mar. 4, 1861, to Aug. 20, 1866) : Act of June 27, 1890 ______24 years ______$8. 00 $2------24 years (June 27, 1890) ______No means of support other than ·dally labor. · - Act-of May 9, 1900______34 years ______8. 00 $2 ___ ,; ___ :: ______24 years ______Annual · income · limitation of $250 '. added to above provision. Act of Apr. 19, 14)()8 ______42 years______12.00 $2_ ------_____ do ______------______Previous restrictions eliminated. Act of Sept. 8, 1916______50 years_------.--- I 12-20. 00 $2------Extended to 39 years (June 27, No financial restrictions. Act of Oct. 6, 1917 ______51 yPars ______' 1905). 25.1XI $2------39 years __ ------Do. Act of May 1, 1920 ______54 years ______30.00 $6------_____ do __ ___ ------_____ ------Do. Act ol July 3, 1926_ ------~-- 60 years~------50.00 $6------Must have been wife during vet Do. / ' I Nan's service. Act of May 23, 1928 ______62 rears ______40.00 $6------~------·-- ~ -- 39 years; widow must be i5 years Do. old. Act of June 9, 1930 ______G4 years ______40.00 $6------39 years; widow must be 70 ______Do. Spanish-American War 2 (Apr. 21, 1898, to ;Tuly 4, 1902): · ' Act' or July 16, 1918_.:______.____ 16 years ______12.00 $2------16 years (July 16, 1918) ______No means of support othPr than dally labor; income not over $250 per ·annum. Act of Sept. 1, 1922 ____ ~------20 years_· ----~----- 20.00 $4 ______·------20 years (Sept. 1, 1922) ____ :. ______Previous restriction eliminated. . Art of May 1,- 1926 ____ : ______.: ___ 24 years_------30.00 $6______20 years_------______No financial restrictions. Vrterans Regulation No. 1 (a), 31 years_------ 15.00 $5 for first child, $3 each _____ do------Pemion not payahle if income exreeds pt. III (act Mar. 20, 1933). a additional child. $1,000, or $2,500 if widow has minor children. Act of Mar. 28, 1934 ______32 years_------22.50 $4. 60 ______------___ ._do_---·------Widow must be exempt from Federal income tllx. Act of Aug. 13, 1935 ______33 years __ _------30.00 $() __ ------__ ------_____ do ___ ------•• ___ ------__ _ No financial restrictions. World War_! (Apr. 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918: or to Apr. 2, 1920, if service in Russia): Art of June 28, 1934 (Public Law 16 years_------22. 00 $8 for first child, $4 each 13 years_------Must he cxrmpt from Federal incomet 484, 73d Cong.l. additional child. tax for preceding year. Act of June 29, 1936 (P"ublic Law 18 years_·------22: 00 _____ do ____ -----~------_____ do ____ ------Do. 844, 74th Con~.). Art of Aug. 16, 1937 (Public Law 19 years_.------22.00 _____ do_------13 years, or none if child born of Do. 304, 75th Cong.). 22.00 _____ do ______20 theyears marriage. ______- _ Act of May 13, 193S (Public Law 20 y·ears_ ------Do. 514, 75th Cong.), 30.00 ____ do ______do ______.Act of July 19, 1939 (Public Law 21 years ______Compensation not payable to widow or 198, 76th Cong.). child if income Pxceeds $1,000 or to widow with children, if inco:ne ex ceeds $2,WO. Act or July 19, Hl39 (Public Law _____ do ______30. 00 _____ do------·------·--- _____ do ______------Compensation not payable to widow 196, 76th Cong.). or child if inc6me exceeds $1,000 or to widow with children, if income exceeds $2,500. H. R. 1182, INTROD-pCED IAN. 14, 1943 4 World War No. 1: Entered service 25 years ______30.00 $8 for first child with $4 _25 years------Compensation not payable to widow prior to Nov. 12, 1918, or before for each additional child. without child, or to child whose Apr. 2, 1920, if service in Russia; No widow, 1 child, $15; annual income exceeds $1,000 cr to 90 days' service during World War 2 children, $22, equally widow with child or children whose No.1. divided; 3 children, $30, aunual income exceeds $2,500. equally divided, with $3 for each additional child, total amount equally divided. Total amount limited to $64. · World War No.2: Served after Dec. War not yet ended_ 80.00 War not ended ______6, 1941, and prior to termination of present war. Having served less than 90 days, discharged for dis· ability in service in line of duty. 1 Higher rates payable if widow of veteran during service, or if 70 years old. 2 Including Boxer Rebellion and Philippine Insurrection. a War dates arc: Spanish-American War, Apr. 21, 1898, to Aug. 13, 1898; Philippine Insurrection, Aug. 13, 1898, to July 5, 1902; Boxer Rebellion, June 20, 1900, to May 13, 1901. . 4 Compensation hereunder would be payable to widower of the person who served as well as to the widow; there is no restriction on remarriage or as to continuous cohabi tation from date of marriage to date of death. It contains no penal provisions and no detailed administrative provisions. NOTE I.-The rates for children, if there is no widow, under the service acts relating to Civil War and Spanish-"American War veterans, are the widow's rate plus the child's rate, equally divided among the children if there is more than 1 child. In Spanish-American War c!tscs, under Public, No. 2, 73d Cong., the rates are: 1 child, $12; 2 children, $15 (equally divided); 3 children, $20 (equally divided); with $2 for each additional child, the total amount being equalJy divided. 'rhe rates in World WarN o. 1 cases, under Public Law 484, 73d Cong., as amended, are: 1 child, $15; 2 children, $22 (equally divided); 3 children, $30 (equally divided); with $3 for each additional child, the total .amount being equally divided. . . NOTE II.-H. R. 4, 77th Cong., Jan. 3, 1941,eovered only World War No.1 cases, and provided rates for dependent mother and father as well as for widow, child, or children. The rates provided are: Widow, no child, $20; widow, 1 child $28; widow, 2 children, $34 (with $4 for each additional child); no widow, 1 child, $12; no widow, 2 children, $18 · (equally divided); no widow, 3 children, $24 (equally divided); with $3 for each additional child (total amount equally divided); dependent mother or father, $20, or both $15 each. 'l'be.total amount as to widow, child, or children was limited to $56. A widow meant a woman who married the veteran prior to July 3, 1921 or within 3 years after the war; or who married the veteran prior to May 13, 1938, provided a child was born of ·the marriage, or 20 years after the war. Eligi])ility of the widow was governed by sec. 3 of the act of May 13, 1938 (Public, 514, 75th Cong.). Under this section, no compensation payable to a widow who bas remarried or unless there was continuous cohabitation with the person who served from date of marria~e to date of death, except where there was a separation due to the misconduct or procured by the person who served without fault of the widow. By incorporating the provisiOns of H. R. 4, as an amendment to pt. ill, Veterans Regulation No.1 (a), the administrative and penal provisions of Public, 2. 1:::u Cong., and Veterans Regulations would have been made applicable. · XC-299 . 4736 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE MAY 19 General HINES. I am sure it would be well various rates dealing primarUy with World sideration of this legislation. I have a table tor the members to have before them the War No. 1 and the previous wars in the con- on that and will offer lt for the record. (The table referred to is as follows:) Rates of compensation or pension to widows, children, and parents of deceased veterans Each Each With With addi· addi· No No No De- Widow Widow 1 child 1 child tionnl tional No widow, widow, widow, pend- For service-cQnnected deaths under 50 or under overlO child child widow, 2chil- 3chil- each ent 50 over 10addi· addi- under over 1 child dren dren addi· parents tiona! tional 10 10 tiona! ------Wodd w., n, Publio, "'i 77th co,.., n.,.,. 10, 1941.: •...... •••.•...••.•••••. 1 World War I: Sec. 5 Pubic, 19~, 76th Cong., July 19, 1939, as amended by sec. 10, Public, 667, 77th Cong., July 11, 1942· --·-·------1-$4/i I $38 $(5 $10 $13 $33 s~~~~s~~~~~r~~. fg~~~4~~~~~~~-~~·-?~~~-~~~-~·:.~~~:~-1~-~~~-~~~-~~~-~~~~~~~- $15 $8 .$20 $46 $8 { 2-'25 Ctvil War. Public, 359, 77th ConJ!./ Dec. 19, 1941.·------Peacetime: Where death rrsulted rom armed conflict or while engaged in extra hazardous serviced Public, 359, 77th Cong., Dec. 19, 1941.. ______Peacetime: Where eath resulted neither from armed conflict nor while engaged 1- 30 in extra hazardous service, Public, GOO, 77th Cong., July 30, 1942 ••••••••••••.•. 130 85 8 11 6 10 1/i 2/i 3/i II 2-'20 I $83 limit to widow and children, exclusive of parents. • $62limit to widow and children, exclusive of parents. • Each. If wid- 0 Each No ~ No Each For non-service-connected deaths Widow Waitdow ':,lreas Wid t Increase limitation: Widow without child or a child $1,000 annual income; widow with n child or children $2,500 annual income; payments of war risk term insurance, U. S. Government life (converted) insurance, payments under World War Adjusted Compensation Act or Adjusted Compensation Payment Act, 1936, not considered in de- termining annll&l income. · NOTE.-Limitation as to date of marriage of widow, depending upon ·law under which entitlement to death compensation or pension established. General or service pension iaws as reen. Public, Nos. 2, 78, 141, 73d Cong., and Veterans acted by Public, 269, 74th Cong., Aug. Regulations 13, 1936' Service-connected deaths: World War II._.·-········-···························--·····················- Within 10 years after veteran's discharge •••••••• World War I------·--··---·--··---·-----·------···-········ Prior to May 13, 1938 ••••••.•.••••.•••••.••..•••• SJ!anish-American War, Philippine Insurrection, Boxer Rebellion •..••••••••••• Prior to Sept. 1, 1922 •••••••••••.•••••••••.•..••• No limitation. Ctvil War •••• _-----.------.• ---•••••• ---.------.------.---.• _- ••. __ • __ •.•••••••.••••••• -··--•• ···-·. ··--····-······· •••••• D(}, Peacetime prior to Apr. 21, 1898 .•------· ··--··------_.••• ------·--·--·-_------~--- •••.•••••••••••• Do. Peacetime after Apr. 21, 1898 .•••• ·-·····------·-··--··-·-··········· Within 10 years after veteran's discharge •••••••• Non-service-connected deaths: World War 1--··------····------·····------·-············· Prior to May 13, 1938 •••••.•••••••.•••.•••••••••• Spanish-American War, Philippine Insurrection, Boxer Rebellion ______Prior to Sept. 1, 1922·------·-···--·-·-··· Prior to Sept. 1, 1922. Civil War_ ••• ------·---·-·------·-·-·· ·-·-·-______-- --···· ····--•••••••.•••••••••••••. ----·····-·-····-··-·· Prior to June 27, 1905, o: during service. Indian wars ______--- __ ••.••• --_. __ .• -·-____ • _____ • ______.• ______•.•••••••• _. _•••••• ______••••• ·-·-. ••• • • • _. _. --·-· ••• Prior to Mar. 4, 1917. Mexican War••••• • __ ••• --_ ••• ____ ••.• _••••• ___ •••••••• _••.••••••••••••••••••••••••• ______••• _••••••••• __ •.••••••••••••• ______No limitation. Mr. SABATH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 could not be established that the par Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Will the minutes to the gentleman from Massa ticular disability or illness or wound gentleman yield? chusetts [Mr. McCoRMACK]: -from which a veteran died was service Mr. McCORMACK. I yield to the gen Mr. McCORMACK. Mr. Speaker, I am connected and had contributed to his tleman from Kentucky. particularly pleased to note the action of death, or was the determining or con Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Did I the Committee on World War Veterans' tributing factor in the death of the vet understand our distinguished leader to Legislation in reporting this bill, and I eran. Because of that fact many widows say that the widows now must prove that am particularly pleased it is up for con of men who did have a service-connected the death of ·~heir husbands, a soldier or sideration today. There is no question condition were unable to obtain any com sailor, was due to disabilities contracted but what it will pass unanimously. pensation from the Government in the in the service? This is deserving legislation. For nature of a pension. Mr. McCORMACK. If a man had a years I have advocated the passage of a 10-percent service-connected disability. Through the years we have eased that Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. One per pension bill, as the gentleman from New gradually. The Committee on World York [Mr. FisH] properly sai1, for widows cent, is it not? and orphans of men who served in the War Veterans' Legislation has reported Mr. RANKIN. If he has any disability. last war and who were unable to connect out numerous bills, every time in the Mr. McCORMACK. Yes. It was 10 their death with service. Any widow of ·right diJ;ection and in the direction of percent and it had to be shown that the a veteran of the last war who died from what this bill will accomplish. The com service-connected disability was a factor service-connected disability, and . in the mittee is to be congratulated for its in his death. case of' surviving children, receives a pen work in that resp·ect. I have always · Mr. RANKIN. There were very few, sion in the nature of compensation as supported those bills. I thought the if any, service-connecte.d disabilities reg provided for by existing law. A great committee was pursuing the right course istered that were less than 10 percent. majority of the widows were excluded, and personally I would much rather have Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. We however, due to the fact that in the case seen the bill now before us passed many started .out ,by providing tpat death had of service connection, even, the fact years ago. to be due to service-connected disabil- 1944 CONGRESSIONAL' RECORD-HOUSE . 4737 ity. Then we cut it d·own, I believe, to 1· not nullify any existing law or take away Mr. McCORMACK. The gentleman 30 percent, then to 20 percent, then to any existing rights. Not only do I have from· Massachusetts is in agreement with 10 percent; but the law as it is today, as confidence in the committee that re the gentleman from New' York, and I am I understand it, is that any veteran with ported the bill, but from my own knowl sure the committee, as far as the com a permanent disability of as much as 1 edge of existing law I am satisfied that mittee can, will give the House the infor percent is included; in other words, the . there is no fear from that direction. mation on that important subject. widow and children may secure compen-. There is just one remaining observa- Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, will the sation? tion that I would like to make. I have gentleman yield? Mr. McCORMACK. Nothing I have always felt that the matter of taking Mr. McCORMACK. I yield to the said is in disagreement with the gentle- care of widows and children of a de gentleman from Mississippi. man's recollection. ceased veteran, where there was an eco- Mr. RANKIN. If the gentleman from . Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Now we nomic situation existing in the deceased New York wants that information, I will remove all disability and I am very much veteran's family. that required a pension, give it to him as best I can. in favor of the legislation, as is the gen- rested with the Federal Government. On page·65 of the hearings on·this bill tleman. Tbat . has been a thought of mine General Hines discussed this proposi Mr. MILLER of Connectic:ut. Mr. throughout the years. This bill recog ... tion. · He said: Speaker, will the gentleman yield? nizes that fact. This bill, while impos- It is estimated that the dependents of ap Mr. McCORMACK. I yield to the gen- ing additional burdens upon the Federal proximately 148,000 deceased World War vet tleman from Connecticut. Government, will bring great relief to er_ti1is would be eligible for the benefits pro Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. I am a our local governments, through taking vided in the bill. The first year's cost would little confused by the language on page from the veteran relief rolls many cases be, if that number is correct-and I think it is 1, lines 9 and 10, "pr has died from a receiving local assistance or reduce the approximately correct--$60,429,000. qisease · or disability not service con- burden upon local governments as the Now, we have found from experience-and nected." Everybody dies of a disease or result of the passage of th~s bill. as to why widows act differently than veter disability. Does thi$ not nullify the 90- The SPEAKER. The time of the gen- ans, I am not sure I know the answer-but we do know that in dealing with pension bills day clause? tleman from Massachusetts has again for widows and children that they do not all Mr. McCORMACK. No. . expired. come in the first year. They seem to be Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. I am not Mr. FISH. Mr. Speaker, I yield the slower in filing claims. clear as to its meaning. What does it gentleman 2 additional minutes. Therefore, in all of our estimates, and in .mean? Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield? this .one, we say· that the first year's cost Mr. McCORMACK. There are two Mr. McCORMACK. I yield to the we have taken one-half, of the tota,l :Of $60,- propositions involved here. Take the gentleman from New York. 429,000 and put the first year's cost at case of a man: who served_less than, 90 · Mr. ·FISH. The· report, if this clari- $30,215,000. . days, and durmg that penod he has a fies it reads as follows· The SPEAKER. The time of the gen service-connected disability. That is ' · one group, as 1 understand it. The bill cont.ains the requil;ement that tleman from Massachusetts has again the veteran must have served 90 days or expired. Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. He is more during the world war, or if less than Mr. SABATH. Mr. Speaker, t move not covered by this bill. He is covered 90 days, must have been discharged for dis- the previous question. · · ' · in other bills? ability incurred in service in line of duty. Mr. RANKIN. If the gentleman will The previous question was ordered. yield, what is the gentleman's question? That is written. right. into the report. The resolution was agreed to. I Mr. McCORMACK. In other words, would -like to ask the gentleman this: RESIGNATION FROM COMMITTEE for any · widow to be eligible for this Do you not believe that ·the House is . pension, her husband had to serve 90 entitled to some estimate as to the cost The SPEAKER laid before the House days or more. of the legislation that it is about to pass? the following resignation from commit Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. Right. l,\1r. McCORMACK. I think that it is tee: always advisable to give the House an es MAY 19, 1944. Mr. McCORMACK. In that case, if Hon. SAM RAYBURN, his death was in any way connected with timate of any bill t)lat is passed; that The Speaker, House of Representatives the service, she would be entitled to the is, the cost of the legislation. Of course, of the United States, Washington, D. c. benefits provided for by this bill if it I think probably there is some kind of DEAn MR. SPEAKER: I hereby tender my becomes law. If her husband served an estimate available, though it may not resignation as a member of the Select Com- , less than 90 da}s then she would not, be a definite estimate. mittee to Conduct a Study and Investigation that is, if he died from a non-service I think the observation made by the of the Problems of Small Business. gentle lady . from Massachusetts [Mrs. Respectfully, connected disability, or from a disease CHARLES A. HALLECK. not service connected. ROGERS] is a proper one; that it is im Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. If he is possible' to determine with any degree of The SPEAKER. Without objection, service connected, he is covered by H. R. accuracy what the amount will be, due the resignation is accepted. 484. . . to the number of dependents that might There was no objection. Mr. McCORMACK. If he is service be affected. But I am sure that some The SPEAKER. Pursuant to the pro connected, he is covered by other law, I kind of an estimate is available some visions of House Resolution 75, Seventy., presume. where. eighth Congress, the Chair appoints as Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. I think Mr. SABATH. Mr. ·speaker, will the a member of the Select Committee to this nullifies the 90-day provision. gentleman yield? Conduct a Study and Investigation of . Mr. McCORMACK. I do not think·so. Mr. McCORMACK. I yield to the the Problems of Small Business the gen Mr. FISH. Does not this law provide gentleman from Illinois. tleman from Illinois [Mr. HoWELL] to if he is not service connected and does Mr. SABATH . . I am satisfied-that the :fill. the existing vacancy thereon. not serve 90 days, that the widow gets a chairman of the committee can give the pension? House that information, because they .GOVERNMENT PROTECTION TO WIDOWS Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. He gets have studied the bill. They certainly AND . CHILDREN OF DECEASED WORLD it under another law. He gets a larger know what it would .cost, ahd I do not WAR VETERANS amount if he is service connected. see why the gentleman from New York Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask The SPEAKER. The time of the should ask the gentleman. from Massa unanimous consent that the bili (H. R. gentleman from Massachusetts has ex chusetts for. that information. 1744) to provide Government protection pired. Mr. FISH. If the gentleman will yield to widows and children of deceased Mr. SABATH. Mr. Speaker, I yield to further, I .think the gentleman agrees World War veterans be considered in the the gentleman from Massachusetts 4 with me that the House should not legis House as in Committee of the Whole. additional minutes. late in the dark huge sums of money for The SPEAKER. Is there objection to Mr. McCORMACK. I am sure my the purpose of the bill, but at least the the request of the gentleman from :Colleague from Connecticut can be sat House is entitled to know approximately Mississippi? isfied. I am satisfied that this bill does what it will cost~ ·· There was no objection. 4738 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE. MAY ·19 The Clerk read as follows: to make such report promptly the approval seen, and.not 1 man out of 50· who voted shall be withdrawn. . 8~ it enacted, etc., That the surviving on it had ever read, known as the dis SEc. 4. That payment shall be effective ability-allowance bill, that was so broad widow, child, or children of any honorably from the da.te of enactment of this act in discharged person who entered the service all cases where application under Public Law that it created a reaction all over the prior to November 12, 191.8, or lf the p~rsons No. 484, Seventy-third Congress, as amended, country that finally resulted in the econ were serving with the Umted States military is on file in the Veterans' ·Administration omy bill of 1933. Those men who were forces in Russia before April 2, -1920,_ and prior to the date of enactment. of. this act, totally and permanently disabled were served 90 days or more during World War and in all other cases payment shall be made · finally restored and are now drawing $40 I, or who, having served less than 90 .days, was diRcharged for disability in the service in from tb,e date .the application of. th(l widow, a mohth. line o!- duty, dies, or has died from a disease child, or children, in the form prescribed by The SPEAKER. The time of the gen the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, is :flied or disability not servi~e connected, shall, tleman from Mississippi has expired. upon filing application and such proofs in in the Ve.terans' Administration. SEC. 5. This act may be cite~ as the "World Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask the Veterans• Admil).istration as the Admin unanimous consent to proceed for 5 addi istrator of Veterans' Affairs may prescribe,· war Widows' and Dependent Children's Act, be entitled to receive compensation: Pro 1943." tional minutes. . vided, That payment of compensation under . Mr. RANKIN: Mr. Speaker, I move to The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the provisions of this ac~ shall no~ be made the - request of the gentleman from to any widow without child, or a child, whose strike out the last word. _. . . Mississippi? annual income exceeds $1,000, or to a widow Mr. Speaker, we have taken. thi.s pro There was no objection. with a child or children whose annual income cedure of disposing of the bill m the Mr. RANKIN. But when they die exceeds $2,500. In detez:mining annual in House as in the Committee of the Whole come, payments of war-risk term insurance, in order to expedite the matter as much their widows and orphans are left United ·states Government life (converted) . as possible and to take up as little time without a penny.- Those widows have insurance, and payments under the World as necessary. dragged their little children through war Adjusted Compensation Act, as amended two depressions, and some of those chil- (U. s. c., title 38, ch. 11), and the Adjusted For many years I have been trying to . dren, as I said the other day, are now Compensation Payment Act, 1936, as get a measure of this ki~d through. The · fighting the battles · of this Nation on amended, shall not be considered. -gentleman from New York [Mr. F~s~l every front in the world. BEe. 2. (a) The monthly rates of compen called attention to the fact that this IS sation shall be' as follows: Widow but no a pension. My answer is now. and al I know that it is customary to wait child, $30; widow with one child, $38 (with ways has been that all veterans' compen":' until they get old-and some of them $4 for each additional child); · no widow but are old today-but you must remember sation is pension, whether it is ~ailed one child, $15; no widow but two children, that a woman needs her compensation $22 (equally divided); no widow but three pension or not, so I have no inclination -most when she is trying to bring up her children, $30 (equally divided) (with $3 for to flinch at the word "pension." little children. For that reason I have each additional child; total amount to be - The World War has been over now for attempted to bring this legislation be- . equally divided). more than 25 years. If you will _go back . fore the House and get it passed at every (b) The total compen.aation payable under · you will find that within that time after this section shall not exceed $64. Where such opportunity I have had since 1932. other wars 'the Congress has passed _leg As I said, we passed this bill in 1932 benetits would othet:wise exceed $64, ,the islation of this kind. One of the things amount of $64 may be apportioned as the Ad by an overwhelming majority. My rec ministrator of Veterans' Affairs may prescribe. that has prompted me to foster this leg ollection is it was 316 to 16. My recol SEC. 3. That as used in this act- islation, which, by the way, passed the : lection is that the majority in this House (a) The term "person -who entered the House 10 or . 12 years ago QY an ov& .' was exactly 300. But it died in the Sen service" shall mean a person, whether male whelming majority but died in the Sen ate, and, of course, never did become a or female, and whether commissioned, en ate is the fact that there are many listed, or drafted, who was finally accepted law. tho~sands of World War veterans who You .may always figure with safety for active service in the mi11tary or naval came out of the last war with disabilities forces of the United States, members of that the Vet~rans' Administration over-. training camps authorized by law, and such incurred in line of duty who were denied estimates the cost of these bills. If the other persons heretofore recognized by stat. compensation or failed to makl! the Veterans' Administration figures are cor ute or veterans regulations as being eligible proper proof or application, and whose rect,.the first year's cost will be $30,215,- for World War service connection for disa widows and orphans h~ve never been 000. My honest. opinion is that that bility; . compensated to this day. might be cut in half or probably still (b) The term ''widow" shall mean a per- In 1924 we passed a law to declare vet . son who was married prior to the date of further reduced because the .expense of erans who became disabled prior to Jan~ , this measure will not. bQ"very heavy . enactment of this act to the person who uary 1 1925 presumptively service-con served: Provided, ':('hat all marriages shall be · The gentleman from New York [Mr. proved as valid marriages according to the nected~ When those men died their FISH] pointed out awhile ago that this law of the place where the parties resided at widows and orphans were compensated. measure has safeguards thrown around the time of the marriage or the law of the We found later that there were many it that protect the Government against place where the parties resided when the thousands of them who did not make the conditions which prevailed after the right to compensation accrued; and their applications prior to January 1, War between the States. When the (c) The term "child" shall mean a person 1925. Some of them pad tuberculo~is, unmarried and under the age of 18 years, Federal soldiers began ·to get old there some of them had cancer, paralysis, and were a great many young women who unless prior to reaching the age of 18 the other insidious diseases from which they child becomes or has become permanently married them and drew widows' pension~ finally passed away. Because of the fact after they died; and some of them are incapable of self-support by reason of men that they were neither directly nor pre tal or physical defect, who is a l~gitimate drawing them yet. child, a child legally adopted, a stepchild if a sumptively service-connected, their wid The Confe®rate soldier was relieved member of the man's household, an 1llegit1- ows and orphans were denied any com of that embarrassment, because he did mate child, but as to the father only, if ac pensation at all. · not· get enough pension to justify women knowledsed in writing signed by him or if be In 1929 I attempted to raise the pre- pas been judicially ordered or decreed to con running around after him to get him to . sumptive period to January 1, 1930. marry them in his old age. tribute to such chUd's support or has been That bill passed the House by 324 to 49. judicially decreed to be the putative father , We .provide here that this shall apply of such a child: Provided, Tha:t the payment It passed the Senate by exactly 11 to ~ - ~ only to those widows who marry the of compensation shall be continued after the or 66 to 6, but was vetoed by the Presi veterans before this bill becomes a law. age of 18 years and until completion of edu dent. Under terrific pressure, brought cation or training to any chUd who is or may to bear from the outside, and from some I am rather certain that no women will ·hereafter be pursuing a course of instruction, men on the inside, and with the promise be runriing around trying to marry these entered into before said child reached his or that legislation that would be more old men on the slim hope of getting her twenty-first birthday, at a school, college, equitable would immediately follow 'to legislation of this kind passed. So I academy seminary, technical institute, or take its place, that veto was sustained. think that evil at least can be entjrely university, particUlarly designated by him and eliminated. approved by the Administrator, which shall Immediately there was passed, under have agreed to report to the Administrator suspension of the rules, with only 40 As I said, if this measure becomes law the termination of attendance of such child, minutes of debate, with no opportunity it will take care of a great many deserv and lf any such institution of learr~ing fails to amend, a bill that none of us had ever ing ·cases who should have been on the 1944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE 4739 roll for. the last 10 years, probably for is totally disabled, permanently disabled. schedule for at least 12 years, if I re the last 25 years But the standard· of self-~upport is dif- member correctly. We are considering this bill under the ferent for.· every indiyidual. I may be Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. I 5-minute rule, and any Member who physically. able to support myself, but the -would like to say also, does not the gen desires to discuss this proposition may same disability or· the same income tleman from Mississippi agree that do so. If any of you have any questions· would not be sufficient for the self-sup- usually the Veterans' Administration is I shall be glad to answer them. port of someone else. high in estimating the cost of a bill? Mr. FISH. I should like to ask the Mr. RANKIN. !-will say to the gentle- Mr. RANKIN. Always, gentleman a question. Has this bi~l any man from South Carolina that the same . Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Al connection with the Economy Act of measuring stick will be applied to these ways. 1933? children that was applied to the children Mr. RANKIN. Yes. Mr. RANKIN. There were some men of the veterans of the War of the Revo Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. We taken off the roll at that time who lution, tbe War of 1812, the Mexican had that experience where the Veterans' were presumptively service-connected. War, the War between the States, and Administration estimated the cost of a If they had died before that bill had the Spanish-American War, and where a bill which I introduced which covered passed their widows and orphans would child has become mentally and physical relatively few constitutional diseases at have been taken care of. As to the ones ly incapac.itated before it reaches the $72,000,000 and then later estimated the who never got back on that roll and died age of 18 years, it comes under the pro cost with reference to a bill introduced from other disabilities, or died from any visions of this bill as long as that disa by the gentleman from Mississippi [Mr. disabilities, their widows and orphans bility prevails. RANKIN], which covered many more con would come under the provisions of this Mr. HARE. My argument was wheth stitutional diseases, at $30,000,000. So bill. I think some of the victims of the er or not we would not be able to relieve the Veterans' Administration is oftener Ecbl).omy Act of 1933 would be taken the Veterans' Administration a great roneous in its estimates. care of under it. deal by inserting the words "permanent- Mr. RANKIN. Yes; and the Veterans' . The SPEAKER. The time of the gen- I~· and totally disabled" instead of using ' Administration is always very liberal in tleman from Mississippi has again the word "self-support." its estimates in advance as to the cost of expired. Mr. RANKIN. I think we would be a· bill. · Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask better off not to be changing the law The SPEAKER. .The time of the gen unanimous consent to.proceed -for 5 ·addi- which has been in existence so long. tleman from Mississippi has again ex- tiona! minutes. This provision has been written into the pired. _ . The SPEAKER. Is there objection to pension law so long I think it would be Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask the request of the gentleman from better to leave it just as it is. unanimous consent to proceed for 5 addi Mississippi? Mr. HARE. If the gentleman feels tional minutes to answer the questions There was no objection. that is more efficient, I have no objec- of some.of the Members. Mr. HARE. Mr. Speaker, will the tion to it. I was raising the question as Mr. COLE of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, gentleman yield? to whether or not the Veterans' Bureau will the gentleman yield? · Mr. RANKIN. I yield to the gentle- should be charged with having several · Mr. RANKIN. I yield. man from South Carolina. yardsticks; that is what I meant by my Mr. COLE of Missouri. I wonder if Mr. HARE. On page 3, line 20, para- question. the gentleman will tell me if a widow graph (c), giving the definition of Mr. RANKIN. This is the yardstick qualifies under this act and begins draw "child," it read as follows: we have always had. I think it is best . ing her pension and then remarries does to leave it that way since it has been ap- her pension continue? Tbe term "child" shall mean a person un- plied all these yea::s. married and under the age of 18 years unless Mr. RANKIN. No; that is my under prior to reaching the age of 18 years the child Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, standing. becomes or pas become permanently incapa- will the gentleman yield? Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. ble of self-wppor~. , . Mr. RANKIN. I yield to the gentleman Speaker, will the gentleman yield? The question I want. to raise is whether from Iowa. . Mr. RANKIN. I yield. or not the Veterans' Administration has Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Would not the Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Of been able to ·fix a s~andard or a yard- mental or physical defects be deter- course, the dependent children will re mined by the same agency of the Vet ceive the pension, but not the widow. stick that will determine what self-sup- erans' Administration as now determines Mr. COLE of Missouri. But not the port is or how much disability would constitute ina.bility for self-support. permanent and total disability? widow who has remarried? . Mr. RANKIN. You did not read the Mr. RANKIN. Oh, yes. Mr. RANKIN. That is right . rest of that line, which is as follows: Mr. CUNNINGHAM. One other ques- Mr. COLE of Missouri. Now, assume lncapable of self-support by reason of men- tion, Mr. Speaker. I think, although this the widow has remarried and again be tal or physical defects. . · bill does not put the widows and children comes a widow through the death of her of the veterans of World War No.1 on an second husband-does she again, as the Mr. HARE. That is correct. I took equality with the widows and children widow of the veteran, who was her first that into consideration. of veterans of prior wars, it is a forward husband, , become eligible for this pen Mr. RANKIN. It would be the same step toward that equality; is it not? sion? as when you would declare an ex-soldier Mr. RANKIN. Oh, yes. And if we had Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. My incapable of self-support. You know taken the schedule applied to widows impression is, is it not correct, Mr. Chair when a person is crazy, we know that. and orphans of veterans of the .War man, under the previous law the widow We know that this applies to two classes between the .States or the widows and would receive a pension if she is in need? of persons. One of them is an imbecile, orphans of veterans of the Spanish That is true, I know, if the widow of a a person who is insane. . · American War, the cost of.this bill would Spanish War veteran remarries and the· Mr. HARE. That is easy, I can under have been a great deal more. husband dies. I will telephone to find stand that. . Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. out if I am correct regarding the World Mr. RANKIN. That is a person who Speaker, will the gentleman yield? War veterans. becomes insane prior to the time he Mr. RANKIN. I yield. Mr. RANKIN. Yes; provided she reaches the age of 18. I will say to the Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. This comes under the other provisions of the gentleman from South Carolina this has bill has been reported out of the Com bill. been in the pension laws probably 75 or mittee on World War Veterans' Legisla- Mr. COLE of Missouri. In other 100 years. tion twice unanimously? . words, if a widow of a veteran . at the Mr. HARE. If that is the ·standard, I Mr. RANKIN. That is right. time this law is enacted is married and am perfectly satisfied, bu~ I have·the im Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. And her then husband, who ·is not a vet·eran, pression that most of the legislation read all the veterans' organizations have en dies, she is eligible as being a widow of "permanently and totally disabled." dorsed the purposes of this bill? ~he veteran? The Veterans' Administration has a .. Mr. RANKIN. .That is right. The Mr. RANKIN. That is, the widow of standard for determining when a person American Legion has had this bill on its the former veteran. · · 4740 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE MAY 19 Mr. COLE of Missouri. She is eligi they marry some other man that com- on account of service-connected disabil ble to make application for this pension? pensation stops. ity who had less than 90 days of service. Mr. RANKIN. - That is right in the Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. I have In order for a widow or minor children case of a Spanish War widow, and I think had experience with a ·number of per:- to secure pension or compensation under it is true as to widows of World War vet sons in my district and they were denied this bill, it is not necessary to prove that erans. a pension after they had remarried, and the veteran's death was due to disability Mr. SPRINGER. Mr. Speaker, will the unless the law has been changed, I do in line of duty, or that he had any serv gentleman yield? not think they can draw a pension. ice-connected disability at the time of Mr. RANKIN. I yield to the gentle Mr. RANKIN. I think if the gentle- his death. It grants pensions to these man from Indiana. man will take that up with the Veterans' widows and minor children of these vet Mr. SPRINGER. The question I want Administration and get their regulations erans of World War No.1 without being to ask is with reference to the former on that proposition, he will find they were required to prove that the veteran had widows and orphans bill which was passed entitled to go back on the rolls. any service-connected disabilitY. Under by the House and which passed the Sen Mr. Speaker, I yield back the remainder our present laws, widows and minor ate and was vetoed. Was not that bill in of my time. children of veterans of World War No. 1 practically identically the same form as Mr. SCRIVNER. Mr. Speaker, I move are already granted the right to apply _ this bill? · to strike out the last word. and secure compensation provided the Mr. RANKIN. Almost; the rate sched Mr. Speaker, I take this time merely veteran's death was due to service-con ule was probably not quite as high, but it to answer some questions and clarify nected disability, or he had service-con was almost identical with this bill. But some doubts. There are two· classes of nected disability at the time of his death, at that time, I will say to the gentleman cases which this law contemplates. but widows and children of these veter from Indiana, it had not been approved First, those veterans who served 90 days ans who did not have service-connected by the American Legion. But the Amer or more. Second, that group of vet- disability, or whose death was not due to ican Legion took the proposition up later erans who did not serve 90 days, but service-connected disability cannot, un and has approved it at every national were discharged prior to the 90 days der the present law, secure compensation. convention down to the present date. service for disability in service; for ex- This measure gives to them that right. Mr. SPRINGER. I know the Ameri ample, a man who had been in service Twenty-five years after the close of the can Legion approved the bill in its last only 30 days, and through an accident Civil War a similar act was passed for convention. lost an eye, and he is discharged because the widows and minor children of Civil Mr. RANKIN. Yes. of that injury. It then contemplates War veterans, and in 1918 the same sort Mr. SPRINGER. Is it not also true two classes of deaths. Past deaths and of bill was passed for Spanish War wid that the Veterans of Foreign Wars have future deaths. When you take those ows and minor children, and Congress approved this legislation? two classes into consideration it will has also passed similar bills for the Mr. RANKIN. I think it has been ap include the widows of those men who widows and children of veterans of our proved by the Veterans of Foreign Wars; served 90 days or over, who have already Indian wars. The Spanish War Act was yes. · "11 th died. It will also include the widows passed 20 years after that war began. Mr. FURLONG. Mr. Speaker, Wl e and children of those men with 90 days It has now been 27 years since World War gentleman yield? or more of service who die in the fu- No. 1 began and more than 25 years since Mr. RANKIN. I yield. ture, without dying from disease or dis- the armistice of World War No. 1. These Mr. FURLONG. I wish to ask the gen ability incurred in line of duty. widows and minor children of veterans of tleman from Mississippi . [Mr. RANKIN] a Then again, it would take in the wid- World War No.1 have been insisting that question. I have correspondence on my ows of those men who have already they be placed on the same footing as desk from a widow of a veteran of World died, who served less than 90 days, but the widows and minor children of the War No. 1. This man was disabled, but were discharged for a disability which Civil War, the Spanish-American War, being a man who wished to carry on hjs was not the cause of death and the and our Indian wars; and I am very work he never applied for any disability widows of those men simJlarly situated -'happy, indeed, to help accomplish this comPensation. Now he has died and his who die in the future. . purpose. widow is in need. To prove his disability I trust that clears up the question that In passing, I wish to commend the after this man's death is a hard thing. the gentleman from Connecticut asked. chairman and other members of the Would this widow, under this law, be Mr. Speaker, it is hoped that this too- World War Veterans' Committee for covered without proving the disability o~ long-delayed measure will soon become bringing this bill out and giving us an her husband? law. opportunity to do this act pf justice for Mr. RANKIN. Yes. I yield back the remainder of my time. the widows and minor children of vet Mr. PHILLIPS. Will the gentleman Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Mr. erans of World War No. 1. yjeld? Speaker, I arise in support of H. R. 1744, I should like to inquire of some mem Mr. RANKIN. I yield. a bill to provide Government protection ber of the committee with reference to Mr. PHILLIPS. In case of a widow who to widows and children of deceased World the limitation providing that a widow remarries and technically loses her pen War No. 1 veterans. This measure has without children, with an annual income sion, does not the income of the second been endorsed by the American Legion, of $1,000, or a widow with a child or husband have anything to do with it? the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Dis- children, with an annual income of Mr. RANKIN. Oh, no. If she marries abled Veterans, and other veteran organ- $2,500, is denied the benefits under this again she lakes her chances. We are not izations. The American Legion and measure. The bill states, "In determin going; to pension some fellow's wife if he other veterans' organizations have been ing annual income, payments of war~risk canriot make a living for her. urging this legislation over a period of term insurance, United States Govern Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Mr. several years. Many of us from time ment life or converted insurance, and Speaker, will the gentleman yield? to time have introduced in the House payment under World War Adjusted Mr. RANKIN. I yield. similar bills. The World War Veterans' Compensation Act, will not be considered Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Where is Committee of the House unanimously as part of the income." That language the act that would authorize a remarried reported this bill and a similar bill, covers any form of insurance paid by the widow of a World War veteran to draw a H. R. 4, in the Seventy-seventh Congress, Government to the widow or children; pension or compensation? I know that 1941. The House in 1941, by almost would it not? a Civil War widow can, but the Economy unanimous vote, passed H. R. 4 and sent Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Act cert-ainly cut out remarried widows it to the Senate. It was not taken up Yes; that is correct. Of course, insur of World War veterans. for consideration in the Senate. This ance that was paid for by the veteran. Mr. RANKIN. Under the regulations bill provides pensions for widows and Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. The first of the Veterans' Administration that has minor children of deceased veterans of Service Pension Act passed for the bene been the practice. We have a great many World War No. 1 who had 90 days or :ftt of· the widows and children of Spanish widows of service-connected men who more of service with an honorable dis- War veterans was in 1918. It excluded are drawing compensation. and when charge and veterans who were Qischarged · widows who had a certain annual in- 1944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE 4741 come or more. Under that law the Pen-~ Mr. CUNNINGHAM. The law gov Every widow of a World War vet sion Bureau required every widow who erning perjury would still control; it eran who was married prior to the date made application for herself and for her would be a sworn statement. of the enactment of this act to the vet children, if she had children, to prove . Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Either it eran comes within the provisions of this that her annual income did not exceed should be stricken or some amendment act provided, of course, if the veteran the amount set out in the act. This simplifying the procedure should be served 90 days or more, with an honor caused endless delays and entailed a adopted. This affidavit being at least able discharge, or if he served less than great deal of expense to the Government prima facie evidence might cause the 90 days and was discharged with a serv in investigating each case to determine matter to be held up months, yes, some ice-connected disability. Of course the whether or not the income of the widow times for years. veteran rr.ust have enlisted in the service exceeded the amount set out in the act, Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. prior to November 12, 1918, or have and, therefore, when our Pension Com Speaker, will the gentleman yield? serv~d with the United States military mittee of the House amended the act on Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. I yield. forces in Russia prior to April 2, 1920. September 1, 1922, we cut out this limi Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. At The word "children" as defined in this tation because it was costing more to the present time I believe claims of bill includes those under 18 years or administer the law with that provision widows and dependents for compensa age and unmarried, and also includes in it than was saved in denial of some tion are acted upon pretty quickly and those over 18 years of age who become pension claims. I had charge of that widows are getting their pension checks incapable of earning a livelihood on ac bill and made considerable sttfdy of the much more quickly. I should also like count of mental or physical disabilities problem, and with that experience and to say to the gentleman-- · before they reach the age of 18 years, knowledge I am afraid the limitation set Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Let me and it includes children Up to 21 years forth in this bill will greatly delay the interrupt to say that there is no such of age who are pursuing a course of granting of this needed relief to thou limitation written into the law in the study. This· measure brings relief to sands of widows and orphan children, matter of dependency benefits; but we thousands of needy and worthy widows and cost the Government more to inves are also having trouble in the matter of and children nf veterans of World War tigate these claims than will be saved by dependency benefits. The gentlewoman No. 1, and I am happy to give to it_my the denial of some few who have incomes will recall that we recently passed an wholehearted support. in excess of $1,000 or $2,500 provided in act increasing the dependency benefits. Mr. MOTT. Mr. Speaker, I offer an this bill. We must constantly bear in We thought these benefits would auto amendment. mind that an overwhelming majority of matically be increased, yet what hap The Clerk read as follows: those who fight our wars are men of very pened was that the dependency agen Amendment offered by Mr. MaTT: On page moderate. circumstances and very few of cies proceeded to cut down thousands 2, line 3, after the word ''compensation", their widows will have an annual income and they had to prove their claims again. strike out the colon, insert a period, and of as much as $1,000 or $2,500. This bill Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. I strike out the remainder of the paragraph. does not say "net income," but merely should like to say to the gentleman also Mr. MOTT. Mr. Speaker, my amend says "income." The necessary outlay to that the Veterans' Administration needs ment would strike the provision of this provide this income may be equal or a much larger personnel. paragraph which requires the widow of almost equal to the income. Yet, under To correct an error, may I not state a veteran to show that her income does this bill, the widow and children would that the World War widow who remar not exceed a thousand dollars or, if she be denied any relief. Then ther.e may be ries cannot get back on the pension rolls, has dependents, $2,500. thousands of border-line cases where the yet a Spanish War veteran's widow who I think this restriction and limitation annual income would be slightly more remarries can. has no place in a bill of this kind. In than the limitations fixed in this bill, and Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. That the first place, as the gentleman from they would be denied relief. The big was the question I raised a while ago. Mississippi so well stated, this is a pen objections to limitations of this kind are I have had experience with many cases sion bill, and I am glad he was so frank the delay in getting this new relief to the of that kind in my own district wherein about it. That is one reason why this widows and minor children and the cost the widow of a World War veteran who limitation is wrong. Limitations and and expense to the Government in ad remarried and became a widow again discriminations have no proper place in ministering the law with this provision could not get back on the pension rolls. pension legislation. A pension is a re in it. If the Government will not save There is nothing in this bill or in the ward for service. Another reason is any money and delay would be caused, law that permits her to have her pension . that the maximum income here pro why should we place this limitation in restored. vided is entirely too small. Everyone the bill? We may, as we did in 1922, find Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. knows that a widow having an income that the cost of administering this act That is correct; but the Spanish War of only a thousand dollars a year is not because of these provisions will be widow can. able to take care of herself. Why make greater than the amount saved because a Mr. ROBSIOJ.'l' of Kentucky. So when a limitation of $1,000? Again we may small number of persons with greater the widow of a World War veteran re have a widow of a veteran who is earning incomes will apply for these pensions. I marries she is out unless we change the $10 more than $1,000 a year. She would shall vote for an amendment to strike law. not get anything under this bill. A lim this limitation from the bill. WHAT DOES THE BILL PROVIDE? itation of that kind is arbitrary, dis Mr. CUNNINGHAM. The extraordi The bill provides a monthly compen criminatory, and unjust. nary cost of administering that provision sation to widows of World War veterans All widows of World War veterans, if of the bill is due no doubt to the trouble who served 90 days or more but had they are entitled to a pension at all, and and expense the Government would received no disability in the service, and I certainly believe they are, are entitled have to go to to determine whether or to the widows of veterans who served to it unconditionally. The veterans' not the widow had an income of more less than 90 days but were 'discharged widows who have large incomes will be than a thousand dollars. Suppose an on account of service-connected disabil so few that it will make no substantial amendment were offered to this bill ity. The following are the sums: difference anyway, so far as the cost is whereby the Government would accept Widow but no child, $30. concerned. the sworn statement of the widow as to Widow with one child, $38 (with $4 for· I hope the House will vote to strike her income and we could get away from each additional child). out this provision and make this bill a all costs of investigation? No widow but one ch1ld, $15. universal and an equitable one to provide Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. If there is No widow but two children, $22 (equally a pension for the widows of all World divided) . . any merit in 'the proposition. The Gov No widow but three children, $30 (equally War veterans, no matter what their in ernment, of course, is at the mercy of divided) (with $3 for each additional chlld; come may be. every person who would be willing to total amount to be equally divided). Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. Mr. swear that her income was below a thou The total amount paid to the widow and Speaker, will the gentleman yield? sand dollars or $2,500. children cannot exceed eM. Mr. MOTT. I yield. 4742 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE MAY 19 . Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. The bill upon veterans' bills that the House committee with reference to the differ· as written does not say "a net income of passed some months ago. I want the ence in cost to the country if this amend $1,000"; it just reads "annual income Senate to act upon this bill promptly in ment is adopted.? of $1,000." order to secure passage by the Senate · Mr. RANKIN. No; I cannot. We are Mr. MOTT. The gentleman is correct. before Memorial Day. I think we want trying to take care of 99 percent of them. I believe this particular provision could to get this through the Senate before We are going to take care of the widows not have been very well considered, be Memorial Day if possible. and . orphans. We have been trying to cause it would preclude so many worthy, Mr. RANKIN. That is right. do so for 12 years. They need the money needy widows of veterans from receiving Mr. PETERSON ·Of Florida. This bill and they need it now. The few of them any pension at all. _ was carefully considered by the com who have this income are not suffering . Mr. CANFIELD. Mr. Speaker, will the mittee and was passed by the House once as the ones are who have no income at gentleman yield? before and got over to the Senate but all. Mr. MOTr. I yield. was not taken up by that body. If we Mr. McMURRAY. Can the gentleman Mr. CANFIELD. There is a widow in send the bill to the Senate as written by give us an estimate as to the cost of the my district, a laundress, who receives an the committee we will stand a better bill? . income of $1,010 a year. It was sug chance of getting it passed. Mr. RANKIN. General Hines esti gested to her even by agents of the Bu Mr. RANKIN. The bill should be .. ·mated $30,000,000 the first year, but I reau that she try to get a decrease in passed as written without this amend- · .think that is rather high. wages so she could get the benefits of ment. To become law it has got to be Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Will Federal Government legislation. She is passed by the Senate and signed by the the gentleman yield? trying to do that now. President. Mr. RANKIN. I Yield to the gentle Mr. MOTT. I thank the gentleman Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky. In what woman from Massachusetts. for his very illuminating and factual veterans' law or pension law today is Mrs. ROGERS -'of Massachu~etts. I contribution. there a provision similar to this? may say that the Rules Committee has· Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. Mr. RANKIN. In the bill dealing with had · this bill under consideration for · Speaker, will the gentleman yield? veterans' compensation. months before reporting it out. Mr. MOTT. I yield. Mr. ROBSION of Kentucky: That The SPEAKER. The time of the gen Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Does withholds a pension if they have an in tleman has expired . . the gentleman feel there would .be more come of more than $1,000? The question is on the amendment apt to be a veto of the bill with that Mr. RANKIN. This provision has been offered by the gentleman from Oregon limitation out? in several bills. The Committee on [Mr. MOTTl. Mr. MOTr. Judging from our past World War Veterans' Legislation wants The amendment was rejected. . experiences with the President in vet to get this bill passed. Mr. BUSBEY. Mr. Speaker, it gives erans' legislation, I should say that Mr. MOTT. Mr. Speaker, I know how me particular pleasure to support H. R. probably the President would veto the ardent a friend of the veterans the gen 1744, a bill providing compensation for bill anyway and that we would have to tleman from Mississippi is. He probably the widows and children of those men pass it over his veto. The President has has done more for veterans than anyone who served faithfully in the First World vetoed nearly every beneficial bill for in this House. I want to ask him if he War, and in World War No.2. Certainly World War No. 1 veterans and their de thinks it is right to require a $1,000 maxi those who will benefit by this legislation pendents, so far as I can recall, during mum income limitation as a condition to have just claims to compensations as his entire 11-year tenure of office, and I the widow's receiving a pension. If the herein provided. would not be surprised if he should veto widow happens to earn $1 ,000, as in the . These widows who are provided for this one, but I believe that the Congt·ess case cited by the gentleman from New ·herein, in cases where the cause of death now, after the experience it has had with Jersey, she is disqualified. Does the gen of the veteran was not a service-con-· the repeal of the Economy Act and the tleman believe that striking out that nected disability; have made the same enactment of the bonus bill over the limitation would cause the Senate not sacrifices as any ·other group, and this · President's veto, has demonstrated its to pass the bill? provision ·of financial benefits for them ability to pass good veterans' legislation .Mr. RANKIN. I may say to the gentle and their children is timely, and it is a notwithstanding the President's veto, man from Oregon that what we are try gratifying privilege to support this legis and we can do it again if necessary. ing to do is to get this bill through to lation. Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, will the take care of these widows and orphans This bill if enacted into law will re gentleman yield? we have been trying to help for 12 years. store benefits to presumptive cases that Mr. MOTT. I yield. I say that if we load it up· with these were removed from those entitled to Mr. RANKIN. What we want is to get amendments, the chances are it will benefits under the Economy Act of 1933. this bill passed so the widows and or merely result in killing the bill. Mr. REES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, phans may be taken care of. This pro Mr. MOTT. Does the gentleman think legislation providing for compensation to vision is in veterans' legislation generally. that if this bill passes the House and the widows and children of World War vet The Committee on World War Veterans' Senate with this amendment that it erans has been under consideration in Legislation has gone through this propo would be vetoed? Congress for some time. This bill pro sition time and time again. Does the. Mr. RANKIN. I am sure it will never• vides that compensation may be paid to gentleman want to kill this legislation? even get by the Senate if we put this widows and for minor children where the If so just go ahead and load it up in this amendment in it. The others were not, total income of the widow is less than way. I will say to the gentleman. $1,000. Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. Mr. MOTT. This is a different year. It has been 25 years since the close of Speaker, will the gentleman yield? Mr. RANKIN. Yes; it is a political the World War No. 1. There are a num Mr. MOTT. I yield. . year. · · ber of widows of veterans who are in need Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. MOTT. And it is a different time of this support. They will be greatly re Would it not be better to take it in two of the year. lieved and benefited thereby. A good bites, get this bill passed first, and then Mr. RANKIN. I legislate on veterans' many of them have children who are de another one dealing with the inequality? legislation whether it is a political year pendent upon their mothers for support. Mr. RANKIN. Of course, ynu have got or not, and I am not going to be stam This legislation simply places World to do it to get it passed at all. You have peded into doing something that I think War veterans' widows on a par with those to get it by the Senate. This bill has will wreck this legislation. of the Spanish-American War. It does passed the House once, it went over to Mr. McMURRAY. Will the gentle not pay pensions to women who have the Senate and there it died. We have man yield? sufficient income with which to take care got to get it by the Senate and we have Mr. RANKIN. I yield to the gentle of themselves. In case the widow of a got to get it by the President, too. man from Wisconsin. veteran remarries, her name is automat Mrs. ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. Mr. McMURRAY. Can the gentle ically removed from the pension rolls. Speaker, will the gentleman yield? The man from Mississippi give us any esti I feel sure this bill will pass the House Senate has not acted until just recently mate that may have been given to the without opposition. 1944 · CONGRESSIONAL- RECORD-HOUSE 4743 Mr. MILLER of Connecticut. Mr. Yesterday I -expressed the thought No widow, but one child, $15. Speaker, for the past few days I have that the cost of the G. I. bill, then under No widow, but two children, $22. stood side by side with the members of consideration, depended on the economic No widow, but three children, $30; with the House Committee on World War Vet conditions here in the United States at $3 for each additional child. erans' Legislation in an effort to pass the the end of the war. If the returning It is further provided that the total so-called G. I. bill of rights. It seemed service man and woman can find gainful compensation payable under this section to me that the Committee on World War occupation at decent wages, the cost of. · shall' not exceed $64. · Veterans' Legislation reported out an ex the G. I. bill will .not be exorbitant. Mr. Speaker, I sincerely hope that this cellent bill to the House whose features From this point on, every time we pass bill will receive the unanimQus approval were generous, cts tl.E:y should be. This legislation or aut.horize the expenditure of both the House and the Senate and shuwed that the committee had given o! huge sums of money, we are threaten will be signed by the President, so that due consideration, not only to the needs ing the security of not only the service these deserving widows and orphans of of the veterans, but to the taxpayers as man or woman but all of our citizens. deceased veterans of this great conflict well. · It is my considered judgment, after occurring more than 25 years ago may I regret that neither my conscience careful and thorough investigation, that without further delay receive this well nor my judgment will allow me to sup the· overw:,elming majority of the men deserved recognition, namely, these port H. R. 1744, which is now under con who served in World War No. 1 and who monthly payments to provide for these have studied -the provisions of H. R. 1744 war widows in their declining years and sideration in the House. This-is the so are opposed to its enactment at this time. called widows and orphans bill. I op for the care of the dependents of de Mr. ANGELL. Mr. Speaker, I am glad ceased veterans. posed this legislation most .vigorously to have this opportunity to vote for the _Mr. SPRINGER. Mr. Speaker, I take when it was presented to the House dur passage of H. H.. 1'i44, which ·is a bill this br-ief time, on this measure, to make ing the Seventy-sixth Ct>ngress. The ob providing Government protection to some observations respecting the widows jections expressed at that tim·e are, if widows and children of deceased World and orphans of World War No. 1 and the anything, more valid today. Just to War veterans-that is, World War No. 1. sad plight in which many of the~ find . make my position clear, may I point out This legislation has been too long de themselves during this present war. that under existing law the widow of any ferred. It is riow over 25 years since the The cost of living has increase.d, an<;l · World War veteran who, at the time of World War No. 1 armistice, and there those widows of our comrades who have his death, had a !-percent or more serv are literally thousands of eases of widows had .the burden of raising children have ice-connected disability, regardless of and children of veterans 01 that great certainly faced some tragic problems. the cause of death, is entitled to a pen struggle who are in dire need and who We desire to correct that situation, and sion. The bill now under consideration have received no recognition or help from to extend· to them, the widows and or removes all limitation as to the veteran the Government for the protection of phans of our comrades, relief which has having a service-connected d'sability: In which these veterans offered their lives. long been delayed. : other words, under this bill, the widow of It has been a uniform practice of our · May I say, at this point, that a bill, every World War veteran would auto Government to provide for such widows almost identical with this one-House matically be entitled to a pension, pro and dependents of veterans of previous Resolution 539-was introduced in the viding only that if there are no children, wars in which the united States has been House, as I recall, in the Seventy-seventh engaged. In brief, this bill provides for Congress, and that measure passed in her annual income must be less than the granting of compemation which is $1,000, or if she has a child it must be the House .. It did not become law. This in the nature of a pension to the widows present measure is · intended to make less than $2,500 annually. and children of deceased veterans of All of which tr.eans that a World War provision for those widows and orphans Worl~ War No. 1, without the require of the veterans of World War No. 1, veteran, killed 25 years after the war, ment that the veteran at the time of which is badly needed. This measure possibly in an automobile accident, could his death had a disability shown to have eliminates the requirement that the vet leave property valued in excess of $80, been incurred in or aggravated by his eran. at the time of his death, must have bOO, and, providing that the animal re military service. had a disability showr to have been in turn on this property was less than 3 per The bill contains the requirement and curred in or which was aggravated by cent, his widow would, under this legisla condition that the veteran must have his service; however, this pending meas tion, automatically be entitled to a pen served 90 days or more during the ·World ure does contain the requirement that sion of $38 monthly. if she had one child. War or, if less than 90 days, must have the veteran· must have served 90 days, I cannot bring myself around to the point been discharged for disability incurred or more, during World War No. 1, or, of supporting legislation to pay a pension in service in line of duty. Furthermore, if his service was less than 90 days, then of $30 to a widow of a man whose only the discharge must have been honorable he must have been discharged for dis- service may have been on a college cam and· the veteran must have entered the ~ ability incurred in service in line of duty. pus while, at the same time, we provide a service prior to November 12; 1918, un This measure also requires that the vet pension of only $50 for the widow of a less the service was with the United eran shall have received an honorable man who was killed in combat or who States Military Forces in Russia, prior to discharge from the service, and it is died of wounds received in combat. It April 2, 1920. These pension benefits are further required that such veteran must seems to me it would be much more equi subject to an income limitation, com have entered the service prior to Novem table to take the thirty to sixty million parable to that applicable to widows and ber 12, 1918, or, if such service was with dollars per year that this bill would cost children under the act of June 28, 1934, the United States military forces in Rus and distribute a major part of the Public, No. 484, Seventy-third Congress, sia, before April 2, 1920. as amended, namely, an annual income Mr. Speaker, while under the present amount among the widows of men who which does not exceed $1,000 to a widow law the widow of a veteran of World War died of a service-connected disability. without a child, or an annual income No. 1, who is drawing compensation by I believe that the widow of a man who which does not exceed $2,500 to a widow reason of the death of her husband, upon was actually killed in combat is entitled with a child or children. The bill pro her remarriage all such compensation is to an adequate pension and, in my vides that in determining annual income terminated, and she is not permitted humble opinion, anything less than $75 payments of war-risk term insurance, thereafter upon the severance of her per month is an inadequate pension. If United States Government life insur subsequent marriage to be restored upon this legislation were restricted to widows anc~converted;-and payments under the •pension or compensation rolls. Yet, of men who actually participated in the World War Adjusted Compensation I am convinced that these restrictive combat or even to the widows of men Act and the Adjusted Compensation Pay provisions will be liberalized in the fu who had a substantial period of over ment Act of 1936 shall not be considered. ture. They should be liberalized. How seas service, I could support it. The only The monthly rates of compensation are ever, I am also convinced that this sub possible justification for this legislation as follows: ject should not be brought into this is the fact that we have paid pensions -to Widow with no child, $30. measure, as it is very important that this widows of men who served in previous Widow with one child, $38; and with legislation in favor of the widows and wars. $4 for each additional child. orphans of Worlq War No.1 be promptly 4744 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE MAY 19 taken care of, and that this measure be tral point of discussion on the amend The SPEAKER. Is there objection to passed to that end promptly and today, ment. The bill as passed and ·the en the request of the gentleman from Mis If other elements should be injected into grossed copy shows the word "training" souri? this measure .today, I fear that this need along with "refresher or retraining There was no objection. ed legislation will be postponed, and in courses." I make the statement at this Mr. CANNON of Missouri. Mr.. the future I fear it will be vetoed. We time merely for the reference of Mem Speaker, I would like to announce to the need this legislation now. The widows bers so that if they use the daily RECORD House that the hearings on the war and orphans of our veterans of World as printed they will not wonder about agencies appropriation bill are now War No. 1 are needy in so many cases. the matter or be misled. available for the Members of the House, A postponement of this measure would Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent if they apply for them at the committee cause great distress and suffering, that the permanent RECORD may be cor rooms. It is a long and detailed bill upon May I call to the attention of the House rected to show the word "training" in the many diversified subjects. It may be that it is now 25 years since the termina place indicated. that Members would like to read the tion of World War No. 1? This legisla The SPEAKER. Is there objection to hearings in advance. They are avail tion has been too long delayed. The the request of the gentleman from South able now, although the bill will not elimination of the· requirement of proof Dakota [Mr. CASE]? be brought up until Thursday of next of the existence of a service-connected There was no objection. week. I should like to say, however, that disability at the time of the death of the Mr. RANKIN. Mr. Speaker, I move the hearings are available for Members veteran will be very helpful in all such the previous question on the bill. only for their personal use, and will not cases. Yet when we recollect that the The previous question was ordered. be released generally for publication or widows of Spanish-American War .vet The SPEAKER. The question is on public use ·until the bill is passed upon erans were granted pensions 16 years the engrossment arid third reading of by the full co:rwnittee and reported after that war wa8 terminated, and there the bill. Thursday. were a very limited number of them, we The bill was ordered to be engrossed AUTHORIZING ACQUISITION AND CON realize that the widows and orphans of and read a third time, and was read the VERSION OR CONSTRUCTIO:r: OF CER the veterans of World War No. 1 have third time. TAIN LANDING CRAFI' AND DISTRICT had a long time to wait until some re The SPEAKER. The question is on CRAFT FOR THE ID\"'TED STATES NAVY dress is offered to them. the passage of the bill. The bill was passed. Mr. BATES of Kentucky. Mr. Mr. ·Speaker, it is my hope that this Speaker, by direction of the Rules Com measure will pass in the House without A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. mittee I call up House Resolution 526, a dissenting vote-that this measure ·and ask for its immediate consideration. will be promptly passed in the other EXTENSION OF REMARKS body, and .that the. veto will not be ap The Clerk read the resolution, as fol plied to this praiseworthy measure by chine tools with which to organize new pro· I have read a~d re-read the report of itself could overwhelm the gallant men duction lines. progress that Admiral King has writ who held our destiny in their hands. Ad Project Cis a case where events have proved· ten on our Navy at war. It is a story miral King tells how these .men of the the wisdom of a much greater rate of produc tion than was before contemplated. Since of the Navy's struggles and victories Navy fell back-through the Philippines, production capacity is already fully taken up, since Pearl Harbor. It is the story of the through the East Indies, back to Aus it will be necessary to set up new forging and stuff America is made of. tralia itself-always fighting, always de loading lines. I have heard and read many comments laying, always clinging steadfastly to Project D makes provision for problems ot on this report since it was issued on April those vital outposts of the South Pacific a type that have already occurred and can be 23. "Brilliant," is the way some of the that would one day enable us to strike expected to occur with incr~sing frequency papers have described it. Others have back. The admiral's is a factual account in the future. It has to do with the changes used such adjectives as "hard-hitting," of deeds. He leaves for us to write in the -that have to be made in the production lines when the product has undergone a change. "unprecedented," and "frank." It is all human story that lies between the lines. The extensive changes incident to the modi· of these, and at the same time it is, as Less exciting, perhaps, than the ac flcation of one of· our fuzes is a case in point. some have said, "the proud record" of counts of the battles, but no less signifi Sometimes the desired results can be ob· the Navy's accomplishments. But there cant as part of a great American story is tained by a few modifications in some rna· is a historical significaPce to this re that section of the admiral's report chines and sometimes a number of new port that transcends all such descrip which deals with the Navy's recovery units must be substituted for or added to the tions. Because this story of the Navy is from the losses of Pearl Harbor, and the former ones. in fact .a story of the American way and ingenuity that began to produce the new Project E has already been discussed, but it of the American man-his strength and may be added that frequently the makers of Navy. Here again it was a matter of scientific inStruments willing to take on a his integrity, his unconquerable spirit, men-American men who had the will to research assignment are sometimes without his ingenuity in digging out the wealth produce, men who knew how to produce, the necessary mechanical equipment or ma of the American earth and turning it men who did produce. By the end of chine tools to proc~ed. It then becomes to into tools of war. 1943 more than 50 aircraft carriers had the Government's advantage to furnish and There are no chapters in our naval been put into service-in contrast to the own the necessary fac111ty rather than to history more gaJlant or more inspiring three the admiral tells us were at one have the price of the new equipment included than the story Admiral King has told us tinie. standing off the enemy-and lar~e in the cost of the services, with only the pro ceeds of the single contract inuring to the about the battle we won at Midway. numbers of escort carriers had been benefit of the Government. A:::1d the gallantr~ and the inspiration built and transferred to Great Britain. It is agfl,in pointed out that any obligation evolve not so much from the fact that Seven battleships-three of them super against this appropriation must first pass the we turned back an invasion threat, per dreadnaughts-had been launched. Nu scrutiny of the Secretary's office, which is haps aimed at America itself. They merous cruisers, destroyers, and subma thoroughly committed to a policy of severe evolve from the realization that a group rines, and giant 1leets of auxiliaries and .. retrenchment in facilities expenditures. of American men, in a moment of very landing craft had joined the Navy. The Conseq~ently, there is every assurance that great crisis, were able to rise above the combat tonnage of the fleet, which had the authorization, if granted, will be admin· inadequacy of their tools, that th~y were stood at slightly more than 1,000,000 istered conservatively and economically. able to outthink and outfight a resource tons in 1941, had increased to nearly The ceiling under which the Bureau of ful enemy. 2,500,000 tons-battleships, which prior Ordnance operates in connection with As Admiral King describes it, the great to Pearl Harbor had required nearly 40 facilities for the production of naval ord problem of our naval commanders during months to build, were now being com nance was set on March 17, 1942, by Pub the lull that followed the Battle of the pleted in 32. Aircraft carriers needed lic Law 499 at a limit of $595,000,000. Coral Sea was to anticipate where the only 16 months instead of 33, and de· The rate of acquisition which obtained at heavy Japanese forces that were in that strayers needed 5 months instead of 13. that time held steady until about August battle would strike again. The Pacific The number of shipyard workers build of 1942, when the need for new facilities was very large. At one extreme were the ing and repairing Navy vessels had dropped. off. However, the progress of Aleutians, at the other was Australia. grown from 443,000 to more than a mil the war has exerted additional pressure Anywhere between these two points"'the lion. upon the facilities of the country, al Japanese might attack-maybe it would While this gigantic building program though in no such volume nor at the be at Hawaii, maybe at Alaska, maybe at was going on, the Navy expanded from rate which characterized the first years Australia-and wherever they struck about 240,000 men to more than 2,000,- of the war. There is a reserve of un they would have a superiority of force 000-to become the greatest Navy in the committed authority as of March 31 of where then to place the thin line of ships world. $7,854,347 and this is considered too small the Navy then had? It is indeed a mighty story of a mighty a margin on which to meet the exigencies The admiral tells how the Navy cal America that has been given us. of future demands. culated the situation, how it chose the The Navy's invasion of the Solomons The committee has received "S.ssurance pinpoint of Midway a8 the spot that began our long-awaited offensive in the that any future building in the nature of would be attacked, and how it took the Pacific. But still we were not completely public works will be processed and calculated risk of pulling out of the vital ready. We had to go on the offens1ve screened by higher authority than the Coral Sea area the ships to defend it. because the Japanese were threatening Bureau of Ordnance, and also checked The Navy calculated correctly. And by then our South Pacific bases. We against available Government facilities when the Japanese came, the American took what ships we had and what m~ considered surplus by the War Depart boys that manned its planes flung them rines we had, and we invaded. And even ment. Also, no land will be acquired ex selves into the battle with a valor that, tually we won. But Admiral King tells .. cept through the Bureau of Yards and as the New York Times described it, "put us Jrankly that we paid a price for it . Docks, which will be subjected to the to shame the fanatical suicide mania" He tells us of the violent Japanese ground same control as is now used in connection that has been attributed to the Japanese. assaults that threatened to throw the with public works. We won the Battle of Midway, and in marines into the sea, of t.he almost con Mr. McCORMACK. Mr. Speaker, I so doing we changed the course of the stant air attacks on supply ships strug move to strike out the last word. Pacific war. But we won more than a gling to reach Guadalcanal, of the rag Mr. Speaker, it is fitting that once in battle there. This report shows that we ing naval battles-battles we did not al a while we should take time out from won also the proof that the American ways win. At one time we were virtually the trials and problems that confront us, mind and the American spirit can nave at the mercy of the Japanese Fleet. But in order to refortify ourselves with e re no peers. because we were able to deny the Japa minder of the greatness of our country. The tragic road that led from Pearl nese information on the heavy ship losses In that connection, the commander in Harbor was no less a tribute to the we had suffered we weTe able to pull chief of the United States Fleet, Ad strength of our people than Midway was through. miral Ernest J. King, has recently given to. out integrity. Defeat piled up on de Admiral King offered no excuses for us one of the most dramatic reminders feat in those dark days of early 1942. naval losses suffered in the Solomons. in our history. Bu'j neitHer the desperate odds nor death He had no elaborate explanations to XC-300 4752 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE MAY 19 cover up the losses of ships. He recorded by the chairman and the ranking member Mr. DINGELL. I think the reference defeats with the same candid words he of the Committee on Ways and Means, the in the minority report is entirely without bill shall be read for amendment under the foundation. The fact of the matter is ...... used to tell of victories. 5-minute rule. At the conclusion of the After Guadalcanal the intense toil of reading of the bill for amendment, the Com there are only 122 distilleries in the the Navy and the country began to bear mittee shall rise and report the same to the United States. The presumption as to fruit. Gradually the losses at sea be House with such amendments as shall have the 500 additional employees could only came fewer.- The communiques telling been adopted and the previous question shall be calculated if every drop of liquor was of victories became the vogue. The Navy be considered as ordered on the bill and repackaged in all the warehouses and swept up the Solomons, joined the forces amendments thereto to final passage with done so at one time. The bill provides of the Southwest Pacific in the advance out intervening motion except one motion to for repackaging on application to the up New Guinea, teamed with the Army recommit. Treasury and not more than once every to clean out the Aleutians, stormed Mr. SABATH. Mr. Speaker, later I 18 months. Instead of more storekeeper ashore in the Gilberts, and then, early shall, of course, yield 30 minutes to the gagers being used, it will likely mean a this· year, crashed into the heart of the gentleman f:fom New York [Mr. FisHJ. reduction for the reason that when you outer Japanese defenses with the assault Mr. Speaker, this rule makes in order repackage 2 barrels that are 40 to 50 on Kwajalein and Roi. H. R. 2539, which would amend section percent full into 1, you will take those Admiral King winds up his report by 2901 of the Internal Revenue Code re barrels out of the warehouse and put the saying that the situation in the Pacific lating to loss allowance on distilled 1 barrel in another warehouse. You "must be as dark and threatening to spirits stored in bonded warehouses, so will consolidate your '\Varehouses, which Japan as it is full of promise to us." as to permit conkiners of distilled spirits will eliminate the number of warehouses And then he declares: in bonded warehouses to be combined that may be necessary to store in bond Long roads still lie ahead. But we are now and consolidated. The combination and the repackaged liquor. This will elimi fully entered on those roads, fortified with consolidation is limited to distilled spirits nate storekeeper-gagers also. I am of unity, power, and experience, imbued with of the same kind, differing only in proof, the opinion that the bureaucrats are confidence and determinJd to travel far and the product of the same distiller at the afraid that· it will reduce the present fast to victory. same distillery, and subject to the same sta:ffs rather than increase them. Here is the Navy's account of steward . outage-loss-limitations under section Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. What ship for the billions Congress had voted 2901 of the code. does the gentleman mean by "bureau to make it strong. The privilege of combination and con crats"? Are they in this bill? This report was designed to give an solidation with respect to any spirits Mr. biNGELL. I may say to the gen accounting of what the Navy has done. may, under the bill, be availed of not tleman that the report was written down And as an accounting it becomes a saga more frequently than once every 18 town, and I refer to the minority report. of America and war. The Baltimore Sun months. . It is the opinion of the Alcohol Tax Unit. said that it "had a breathless quality"· When disti!lect spirits are placed in They did :':lot make out a case before the which arose from the country's knowl barrels and the barrels placed in bonded Committee on Ways and Means. edge of its close call at the beginning. warehouses, there occurs a substantial Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. The The Washington Star found it "the story shrinkage in volume of spirits by evapo Treasury Department is opposed to it? of a United States fleet which has fought ration, by absorption of the barrel, and Mr. DINQELL. There is no further its way back from the edge of disaster to by leakage. opposition from the Treasury here. an assured command of the sea." Said This b:Hl would save barrels and trans Mr. MAR.TIN of Massachusetts. I am the New York Times, "It presents a rec portation costs. ' The scarcity of mate getting back to the bill. ord of magnificent achievement of which rials, the lack of adequate manpower, Mr. DINGELL. The Treasury orig the country can be justly proud." "This and our overburdened transportation inally was opposed to it; yes. report should cause every American citi systems are important factors. Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. That zen to o:ffer up a prayer," was the way This proposal would facilitate eco is what the gentleman refers to by "bu Cedric Forster, of Mutual Broadcasting nomical transportation of large quanti reaucrats"? System, received it. And the Philadel ties of "fire water," otherwise known, I Mr. DINGELL. Yes. After the com phia Inquirer spoke of the magnificent believe, as whisky or spirits, used by none mittee had acted favorably upon there achievements that had been summe · up here, however, in view of its price. quest of the distilleries of this country. This is nothing more than pure repack in the "remarkable" report. Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. Will Admiral King's report is documentary the gentleman yield? aging. The feature providing for an al proof of the stu:fi our country is made of. lowance of 1 percent due to spillage oc Mr. SABATH. I yield to the gentle casioned by repackaging has been The fears, the hopes, and the struggles man from Massachusetts. of all America in this war are bound up stricken out, so there is n<' .question of Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. May revenue involved. Now, in reference to in its pages, and on its lesson the future I ask the gentleman from Illinois of America rests. the question of cost, assuming you have whether this will put 500 additional em to put on 500 more warehousemen or Mr. VINSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, ployees on the pay roll? I move the previous question on the bill storekeeper-gagers, in that instance the to its final passage or rejection. Mr. SABATH. This process will actu committee provides for a 10-cents-per The previous question was ordered. ally reduce the number of employees, as barrel service tax which the alcohol-tax The bill was ordered to be engrossed I understand it. There would be a fee head allowed was more than sufficient to and read a third time, was read the third assessed in connection with each such cover any attendant costs. time, and passed, and a motion to recon operation. Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. The sider was laid on the table. Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. I gentleman does not think we will lose any notice in the minority report that it will revenue? , CONSOLIDATION AND REPACKAGING OF put 500 additional inspector~ on the pay Mr. DINGELL. We cannot lose any SPIRITS roll. Is that true? revenue. What you might do is save a Mr. SABATH. Mr. Speaker, by direc Mr. SABATH. You cannot always go little evaporation because the evapora tion of the Committee on Rules, I car up by the report of the minority. The gen tion of two. half-barrels is a whole lot House Resolution 550. tleman knows that. more rapid than the evaporation in one The Clerk read as follows: Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. I will full barrel. Resolved, That immediately upon the adop say to the gentleman that several dis Mr. FORAND. Will the gentleman tion of this resolution it shall be in order tinguished Democrats, including the gen yield? · to mcwe that the House resolve itself into tleman who just left the chair, joined the Mr. SABATH. I yield to the gentle the Committee of the Whole House on the minority in that report. man from Rhode Island. state of the Union for the consideration of Mr. DINGELL. Will the gentleman the bill (H. R. 2539) to amend section 2901 Mr. FORAND. Mr. Speaker, may I in of the Internal Revenue Code. That after yield? ject myseif at this moment to say, and I general debate, which shall be confined to Mr. SABATH. I yield to the gentle believe my colleagues on the committee the bill and shall continue not to exceed 1 man from Michigan, who requests a rule will bear me out, that the Treasury op hour, to be equally divided and controlled before our committee. position to this bill was on the theory 1944 CONGRESSio-NAL RECORD-HDUSE 4753 that theTe will be a lot of spillage and relea-sed for the market; but the "big program f(!)r a peniod nf :2 -years, a-s well wastage. We nave eliminated in the bill five·" oontrol it absolutely. as the extensicm of the Farm Security that feature and :the opposit'i:on f~H fiat. 1 understand tbat the Go;vern.ment program for 1 -y.ear. Mr. MA-RTIN of Massaehuset-ts. There 1 ts Investigating this nef.a.riom;, soulless .Next is H. R. 4184:, the Jand-,grant is not any o.pp here and make a request of thi~ kind that Mr. COOPER. I will say to the gen ample to defray the expense of carrying it ought to be defeated. Why, if the oil tleman from Mississippi [Mr. WHITTING out this legislation? people came here and asked for the priv TON] that the minority views filed are Mr. DINGELL. Yes; sir. ilege of consolidating two partially filled substantially the same views as expressed Mr. STEFAN. And you indicate that barrels of oil, or a railroad reque,.;ted the by the Treasury Department. you will not come in here for an appro right to consolidate two half-filled gon Mr. DINGELL. On the original bill. priation to carry out the provisions of dolas, you would have no objection to it. Mr. COOPER. On the bill as it now this legislation? As a matter of fact, you would think it stands. Mr. DINGELL. Not as far as I am was ridiculous if they did not have the Mr. DINGELL. 'Ve have no record of concerned; no, sir. right to do it themselves without asking that in committee, and I think I ought to Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance the permission of Congress. I think it is know something about it. of my time. ridiculous that the distilleries do not Mr. COOPER. I am making it of rec Mr. DEWEY. Mr. Chairman, I yield have that privilege in their business to" ord now. myself 5 minutes. day. It is one of the largest revenue Mr. DINGELL. Those are simply your Mr .. Chairman, this repackaging bill is producing industries in this country. I words, and not the Treasury attitude purely a business bill that has to do with think when they ask for something like which you cite for the record. the transition period from wartime pro this and the great majority of the Com" Mr·. STEFAN. Will the gentleman duction to peacetime production. I have mittee on Ways and Means votes it yield? · just been sitting on the so-called Post through and we get in addition a unam Mr. DINGELL. I yield. War Ecqnomic Policy and Planning Com mous report on the bill through the Mr. STEFAN. I am trying to under mittee, a subcommittee of which has been Committee on Rules, that the bill is sub" stand this bill. It has to do with the giving thought to termination of the stantially sound. I think the bill itself repackaging of liquor. thousands and hundreds of thousands of challenges the opposition. We struck Mr. DINGELL. Yes. contracts for war production which one out anything that might impair the rev" Mr. STEFAN. In your opinion will it day will be canceled. enue. We provide for covering costs of help in the elimination _of the bootlegger The next study that is corning up is any additional employee. And with ref in any way? the shifting over of plants from war pro erence to the question that was raised Mr. DINGELL. I do not know as it duction to peacetime production. One by my friend from New York when we would be as far-reaching as that but it of the problems that will come before the considered the rule as to patronage, these will make less the evaporation per barrel. House and before this committee is where are civil-service employees, and there It is allowed by all that two partially will the machinery be stored that is no will be no patronage. I said then, and filled barrels will evaporate faster than longer used for war production. Shall I say now, I will yield what little patron one completely filled. we set it out in the yards and let it rust? age there will be, and there will be none, What will happen to it? Under laws that to my friend from New York, all or- it, Mr. STEFAN. The gentleman said have been passed the proprietors of fac because there will be less rather than that in his remarks on the rule with ref tories will, in due time, have a right to erence to the shrinkage. But this is a move out this machinery, safeguarding it more. repackaging bill. Will it result in bring Mr. 'WHITTINGTON. Mr. Chairman, ~s much as they can. The important will the gentleman yield? ing more liquor out to the consuming point being to speedily get back to peace Mr. DINGELL. I yield. public from the warehouses, or does it time production when war production is Mr. WHITTINGTON. Something has give the distillers some opportunity to over. been said about the report of the Secre cut the liquor? Let us consider this great distilling in tary of the Treasury as to the increased Mr. DINGELL. Oh, not at all, because dustry. It will be noted that in all of the cost of operation. Where is the report? the bill is specific. It provides that pack bonded warehouses there is room for I do not find it in the report of the com ages of spirits of the same kind, differing about 13 ,000,000 barrels. There has been mittee. only in proof, the product of the same no distilled spirits made since the emer Mr. DINGELL. I will say to my friend distillery, subject to the same outage lim gency. All of the alcohol that went into from Mississippi that it is my belief and itations in this section, may be consoli distilled spirits is now going into muni my interpretation that the opposition to dated-there is no provision which allows tions and various other war products. So the bill was directed at the bill as orig for cutting or blending. there has been no distilled spirits made inally introduced. Mr. STEFAN. I was just wondering for at least 2 years. I think I am correct Mr. WHITTINGTON. I recall that what the purpose of the repacltaging was. in the date. statemetlt, but where is the report of the Mr. DINGELL. To save cooperage, As a result, the supply of distilled Secretary of the Treasury? It is not em" storage facilities, and freight. To fill one spirits on hand has sunk to 8,000,000 bar braced in the report of the committee or barrel with the contents of two or more rels, or about two-thirds of what might the minority report. partially filled barrels. The emptying of be called full peak storage. When word Mr. DINGELL. No; it is not because one or two warehouses and maintaining comes that alcohol will no longer be I do not think it holds good as regards one filled warehouse. needed for war production and it may be . this bill. I think the objection was on Mr. STEFAN. The discussion of the turned over for distilled spirits, two the original bill, which provided on page possibility of having to employ 500 ad things will have to be done. Distillers 2 for certain allowances. That has been ditional employees to carry out the pur will have to manufacture to build up the stricken from the bill now before you. poses of this legislation would result in · supplies to be cut with the old, aged dis On the question of possible -additional having to come· in here for more appro tilled spirits, to make them potable. Dis employees, we provide a service tax priations. What will this cost? tilled spirits are not potable under 2 or which will more than take care of that. Mr. DINGELL. If they did that it will 3 years. So, what will happen? They The CHAIRMAN. The time of the be more than covered by the 10-percent will have to make additional distilled gentleman from Michigan has expired. service charge provided in the bill. spirits to cut the aged distilled spirits. Mr. DINGELL. I yield myself 5 addi Mr. STEFAN. That will be paid by They will have to make a reserve supply tional minutes. the service charge made to the distiller? to start aging. We only have storage So I think that on that score the oppo Mr. DINGELL. That is right. I will space in bonded warehouses for 4,000,000 sition of the Treasury was completely say to the gentleman, if such time comes barrels at the present time, and we have answered. that he is asked to make additional ap got to find bonded warehouse space to Mr. WHITTINGTON. It strikes me propriation for this purpose, it will be take care of the reserve stocks of distilled that the committee ought to make the for some other purpose than that oc spirits as they are made, both for con report of the Se.cretary of the Treasury casioned in this bill because there will sumption and for aging. - available to the House. not be ·more personnel-as I said before, At the same time we have to find ware Mr. DING ELL. I do not believe there there will be fewer rather than more houses in ·which to store war production is any. numerous storekeeper-gagers. machinery until it can be otherwise dis Mr. COOPER. Will the gentleman Mr. STEFAN. Then I understand posed of or reconverted. In addition to yield? from the gentleman'$ discussion that this that, there will be great quantities of in Mr. DlliGELL. I yield. 10-cent service charge is more than ventories that will have to be stored. 1944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE 4757 Hence, I think that the purpose of his vided for in the bill and by the fact that Mr. DEWEY. Mr. Chairman, will the bill is a business purpose. the record shows that there is no short gentleman yield? From my point of view, to have 8,000,- age of manpower as indicated by the · Mr. REES of Kansas. I yield to the 000 barrels of distilled spirits sitting in civil-service lists. distinguished gentleman from Illinois, a bonded warehouses. half filled, does not A most important feature of this bill member of the committee. make good sense. To consolidate them is one pointed out by my distinguished Mr. DEWEY. I took several minutes into about 5,000,000 barz:els, thus giving colleague the gentleman from illinois of the time of the House to explain why additional storage space for that time [Mr. DEWEY]. ·Every other industry is this was a business bill. We must ad when storage space is needed, is nothing talking about post-war planning. Here mit that the distilling industry is an but good judgment. Hence, based on is a situation where we have a great in industry that employs a great many that and that alone, I hope this House dustry, an industry that bas ceased· dis thousand people. It is an industry now will pass tllis bill and permit this indus tilling -since the beginning of the war. producing alcohol for war purposes but try, which is a dignified industry, em They desire these barrels to be used for some day they will go back to their regu ploying thousands and thousands of other purposes and desire to obtain in lar business of producing distilled men, to prepare itself for the transition creased storage facilities. spirit-s. They have just as much right period back from war to peacetime em The CHAIRMAN. The time of the to make plans for the transition period ployment. gentleman from New York has expired. from war to peace as any other industry The CHAIRMAN. The time of the Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Chairman, I yield engaged in war business. gentleman from Illinois has expired. 1 additional minute to the gentleman Mr. REES of Kansas. The interest Mr. DlNGELL. Mr. Chairman, I yield from New York. ing thing about this legislation is that 5 minutes to the gentleman from New Mr. LYNCH. When the time comes it has nothing to do with a war indus York [Mr. LYNCH]. that they do resume distilling we should . try. At least the gentleman has not Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Chairman, I think offer them every possible facility for do shown wherein it helps in the prosecu this bill is a good bill and should pass. ing so. tion of the war. This legislation has to It seems to me the opposition of the The question of transportation was do with liquor that is to be sold at re Treasury was predicated somewhat on taken up by the gentleman from illinois tail for people to drink. This does not the theory that because this bill did not [Mr. DEWEYJ. I believe it is most im help war industry at all. As far as I originate with them the Treasury was portant in these days when transporta can figure it out it has nothing to do opposed to it. It is a bill desired by the tion difficulties are so great that we with the prosecution of the war. industry. and it is fair to assume that should bear in mind that every possible The gentleman says this legislation is if the industry desires the bill it will be step should be taken to avoid unneces to provide more space where we can store helpful to them. sary transportation and in this case to our war machinery. I am thinking of The situation as I look at it is this, allow them to utilize space in barrels farm implements; things of that kind. taking the objections that were raised at that occurs because of shrinkage. As I What about all these war plants that will the time of the hearings: First, that it recall the testimony, over a period of time be vacant after their lights are tm·ned was going to be costly to the Government. there is a shrinkage of about one-quarter out? We·shal1 have a mass of storage This objection has been met by the fact of the con tents of a barrel. There is no space for war machinery, if that is what that a service tax of 10 cents a barrel use transporting barrels three-quarters the gentleman is looking for. There wiiJ is placed on each dumping. The av.er full from Kentucky to New York when by be plenty of storage space without the age wage of these storekeeper-gagers the simple process of dumping, three bar comparatively little that can be found in runs from $'2,000"to $2,500 per year. This rels will take the. place of four and that these liquor plants for storing war equip makes about $7 or $8 as a daily wage. additional space can be used for some ment. They will be using that space The testimony was that these storekeep other purpose. themselves when the war is over to store er-gagers could gage approximately 100 The CHAffiMAN. The time of the an increased production of liquor. The barrels a day. This, at 10 cents a barrel, gentleman from New York has e:xpired. Government will not need to use any is $10 a day, and apparently on that Mr. DEWEY. Mr. Chairman, I yield 5 space of that kind to store war ma basis the Government would not be los minutes to the gentleman from Kansas chinery. I just do not see it, this busi ing money. With that objection elimi [Mr. REES}. ness of getting all heated up over the nated the objection of manpower was liquor business. There is a lot of talk raised. The Government said it would Mr. REES of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, about scarcity of liquor these days. be difficult to get storekeeper-gagers. I it seems to me that it is rather out of You can go right down now in any have checked with the Civil Service Com place that the attention and time of the liquor store and buy a package of liquor mission and find there has been no such United States Congress should be re if you want to spend the money, but you examination held by the Civil Service quired to consider legislation of this kind cannot go into a retail store and buy a Commission since December 31, 19tl. I at this particular time. package of ice cream right now, can you? also find no recent record of any such This le-gislation we are told is for the It is queer how the thing seems t() work examination being held in the Second distilleries. So far as I can find out, out. · District of New York. Where vacancies nobody is asking for this measure except The thing that occurs to me is that occur in New York they are filled by the distilleries. There certainly has this legislation is all unnecessary: it is transfers of persons from other agencies been no demand for it from the country, all uncalled for. It should not have been who desire to return to New York City. not even from the departments of Gov brought to the floor of the House in the It seems most apparent to me that if ernment. In fact the Treasury Depart first place. It appears a distillery group none of these examinations have been ment is opposed to it, and the Alcohol comes 1n here and says they need this held anQ. if transfers are made by de Tax Unit says it should not be passed. thing, they want to put their liquor in a partmental regulations returning people The measure is described by the d-is less number of barrels. My goodness to places they originally came from there tinguished chairman of the Committee alive, let us get on some legislation of can be no great shortage of manpower. on Rules, as being some kind of a "medic real importance. The Member who pro Let me say further that the distilling of inal" bill. He said it might be good posed this legislation and who also liquor has ceased since the beginning of for those who need medicine~ that it brings in the majority report says it will the war or thereabouts, and that the might help them. I cannot see by the not be necessary to hire any additional storekeeper-gagers are heing used to gage greatest stretch of the imagination how employees. I do not see how you can get the amount of alcohol in tank cars which this bill or the material involved would out of it. convey the alcohol from the distilleries. be of any help in that respect. The dis We will either have to employ more or It is apparent it does not take as many tinguished gentleman from Illinois [Mr. else keep a lot of them on the pay roll men to gage a tank car as it would to DEWEY] describes it as a business·meas we do not need at the present time. If gage individual barrels of distilled liquor. ure. I fail to find any business· attached the business has gone down so much, let It seems to me therefore that the points to it. I would be glad to have any Mem us take some of them of! the pay roll and raised by the Treasury in their original ber on the floor of the House point out use them for a more important purpose objections have been met entirely by the just how this could be a business meas than measuring liquor while we are 10-cent service charge that has been pro- ure. trying to fight a war at the same time. 4758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE MAY 19 It seems to me that we have a lot of is·no demand for that space. In fact the Mr. DONDERO. Will the gentleman useless manpower right now handling rep01't says 2,000,000 barrels of liquor is yield? the retail end of the liquor business. · being withdrawn annually from storage. Mr. HOFFMAN. I yield to the gentle . The CHAffiMAN. The time of the So the space is not overcrowded. The man. gentleman has expired. Government will have plenty of storage Mr. DONDERO. I have had two in Mr. DEWEY. Mr. Chairman, I yield space of its own when this war is over. stances come to my notice where two the gentleman 1 additional minute. I want to point out further that the people wanted to build a new structure Mr. KEEFE. Will the gentleman Treasury Department and the Alcohol which would cost slightly more than yield? Tax Unit, who have no interest in the $200. They were denied the right to Mr. REES of Kansas. I yield to the liquor business, except to enforce the build them. In one instance, they were gentleman from Wisconsin. law, are both opposed to it. There must told if they wanted . material for the Mr. KEEFE. The reason I rise to ask be some fair reason for their opposition repair of some other building they could the distinguished gentleman from the to it. Mr. Chairman, it has already been have it up to $5,000. The gentleman has State of Kansas the question that I pro stated that about 500 additional inspec not gotten on to that new rule. pose to ask him is because I assume that tors at an expense of· .approximately Mr. HOFFMAN. I thank the gentle out of the great wealth of his study of $250,000 will be required to enforce this man. Perhaps we may put this thing the liquor industry he will be able to measure if enacted into law. We' are over some cellar of a building that has answer beher than anyone else in the short of manpower right now and the been burned. They want this material. House. Government pay rolls are already loaded. They need it. They must have it if the Mr. REES of Kansas. I am not so There is nothing in this measure for the food is to be saved. . sure about that, but I appreciate the good of public interest, or that helps ·in The CHAIRMAN. The time of the compliment. . the prosecution of the war. · It ought to gentleman has expir~d. Mr. KEEFE. If I understood the gen be defeated. Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Chairman, I yield tleman from Illinois correctly, the state Mr. DEWEY. Mr. Chairman, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Ten ment was made that one of the purposes 5 minutes to the gentleman from Michi nessee [Mr. CooPER]. of this bill was to permit half-filled gan [Mr. HOFFMAN]. Mr. COOPER. Mr. Chairman, my . whisky barrels to be filled up in order to Mr. HOFFMAN. Mr. Chairman, I ask main purpose in asking recognition at release some whisky barrels for use in unanimous consent to revise and extend this time is simply for the purpose of other industries. Can the gentleman my own remarks and to include certain explaining to the membership of the. tell me whether or not a barrel that has tables. House the situation with respect to this been used for the storage of whisky is The CHAIRMAN. Is there objection bill. This bill or a similar bill has been available for some other purpose in the to the request of the gentleman from before us for some years, the distillers industry? Michigan [Mr. HOFFMAN]? of the country wanting the opportunity Mr. REES of Kansas. I think that is There was no objection. of consolidating and repackaging liquor. a very fair question. Mr. HOFFMAN. Mr. Chairman, I just . As was stated a few moments ago, six Mr. KEEFE. And will the gentleman came in on this storage question. I am of us on the Ways and Means Commit answer this question also: Does it take not so much interested in the storage of tee. signed minority views. They are less space to store an empty barrel than Milwaukee beer or Illinois whisky. I available and Members may examine a full barrel of whisky? suppose it wiH have to be stored some them if they so desire. The CHAIRMAN. The time of the place if they do not make it good enough The Treasury Department is opposed gentleman has expired. for the fellows to drink. to this legislation, the Alcohol Tax Unit Mr. DEWEY. Mr. Chairman, I yield What I am interested in is this: Down is opposed to the legislation and ap the gentleman 1 additional minute. in Van Buren County, we have the Bur peared before the committee in opposi Mr. REES of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, nett Farms witH hundreds of acres, grow tion to it. They pointed out that there in the first place I cannot conceive of any ing tons, and I means tons, not ounces or was no necessity for the bill. There is particular use for those barrels after pounds, of food. Those people have built a great surplus of warehouse space and they have been -used for liquor purposes. their own cannery, they have the labor a great surplus of barrels, which are the I assume what they would do would be to take care of their.crops, they have the only two points that the distillers made to hold them over until they can manu factory to can them and hold them over, as a reason for needing the legislation. facture more liquor, and then refill them. but they have not any place to store the They claimed they needed warehouse Mr. KEEFE. Could they be used to canned fruits and vegetables. They space and needed barrels, yet there is a store applejack in Kansas, for instance. have been trying for more than a month surplus of both. Mr. REES of Kansas. We would not to get the department down here to let The Alcohol Tax Unit pointed out that have any use for them out our way. them build a small building for which it would endanger the revenue to allow Mr. HOFFl\.fAN. Will the gentleman they can get all the material if priority is them to dump and consolidate and re yield? given. I cannot get them to do it. Yet package this liquor. The Federal Gov Mr. REES of Kansas. I yield to the the Agricultural Department keeps writ ernment has an interest of $9 in taxes · gentleman from Michigan. ing the farmers all the time to produce in every gallon of .distilled spirits in this Mr. HOFFMAN. How about Milwau more food because the civilian popula country. With the enormous amount of - kee beer; do they need any stoTage tion must have it and the members of distilled spirits involved in this process, space for that? the Army and Navy and armed forces the loss of revenue may be considerable. Mr. REES of Kansas. I am not so must have it also. In addition to that, the Alcohol Tax Unit sure about that. I am not familiar Some of you gentlemen who are poli states it will require 500 additional store enough with Milwaukee beer to discuss ticians, some of you gentlemen who are keeper-gagers to do this work; that is, the question. New Dealers and who are in favor at the to supervise the consolidation and re Mr. Chairman, I do not believe the ·moment down here, tell me how I can get packaging, at an average salary of about argument in favor of this bill merits the the material so that the Burnett Farms $2,500 a year. This will mean about support of the membership of the House. can build this storage space to take care $1,250,000 of additional expense for these. This is not just a question of whether you of the strawberries, the cherries, plums, added storekeeper-gagers, and there is favor liquor. It is not in the public in peaches, and later on the pears, and they the further fact that they are extremely terest. The Committee on Ways and store apples, too, at times, although they difficult to secure at this time. Means were divided in their opinion. . I do not can them. Tell me how I can get In view of the situation presented, six do not know who testified before the the materials so that these folks can put of us on your Committee on Ways and committee. In any event there were no up their building to carry out the pro Means felt that this legislation is not open hearings on the bill. We have no gram advocated by the Agricultural De necessary, that it is not justified, and copies of the hearings. I see no public partment. Maybe there is politics in there is no re~ . son for it being passed at interest in favor of it. I would like to this thing that I am discussing, I do not this time, it being only a request from point out, however, that about the only know, but all those people want is this the distillers, al)d that they failed to argument in support of the bill is that it building to put this canned food in after make out any logical or reasonable case would save some storage space. There they grow it, harvest it, and can it. as needing or requiring this type of leg:S- 1944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE 4759 lation. So the six of us felt that it was ject to the same outage 1imitat1on under this The D.oorkeeper will close the doors, our ·duty, as members Qf th~ committee section, may at any time or times 1:\uring the the Sergeant at Arms will notify absent who heard all the evidence, to IJresent pe,riod of storage ln bond, but not more than Members, and the Clerk will call the roll. mi once in every 18 months, be consolidated or the ·faets to you in the form .of the combined by being regaugen, 'dumped into a The question was taken; and there nority report that has been 51ed here. tank, and repackaged, under su_pervis1on of were---yeas 126, nays li>8, not voting 135, l felt it '00 be my duty today to eall your the storekeeper-gauger, in as many of the as f~Hows~ attenti~m oo this minority report and ask same packages 'a'S shall be neeessary, the [Ro11 N.o.. 63~ .you to consider the faets presented there quantity of toss t'!Ustained for -such pack-ages YEAS-126 before. you deci-d-e how you want 00 east to be t~.seert1lin-ed -at the time of 'SU{!b con-soli dations or combinations, the allowance above Allen, Ill. Halleck O'Neal y-our vote QP this question. . Anderson, Oa.l1f. Hancock Outland provided to be made ~,t 'SU{:h thne and the Andr~, N. Y Harness, Ind. Philbtn Mr. . MICHENF;R. Mr. Chairmf..n, will taxes ·paid on any losses in excess.; such al the gentleman yi~ld? . · Bates, Ky. Harris, Ar'k. Pittenger lowances to .resume and continue as to the Beall Hartley Ploeser .. Mr. COOPER. I yield to th~ ·g~ritle pae'kages into which tbe spirits ha-ve been :re · Blackney Hess Powers man from Michigan. packed from the date of :such repackaging. Bradley, Mich . Howell Pratt. . Mr. MICHENER. Do J understand The Commissioner, witb the approval of the Burch111 . N. Y . Izac ..Joseph'M . Secretary of the Treasury, ls authorized to Camp Johnson, Rabaut th€ gentleman to say that if this legi~ Canfie19 Calvin D. Ramey ia·tion is enaeted it wm. require ~00 addi make regulations in :respect thereto. Cannon, Mo. Johnsoi.r; Ind. ·. Ramspeck ti~nal employees at this time? "The Commissioner shan abate the tax on Capozzoll Johnson, ' Reed, Ill. Mt. ·COOPER:· The statement -of the the actual losses due to dumping and re Car.r1er J . .LeroJ Rodgers, Pa. pack-aging: Provided, however, That this loss Cha-pman Jonkman Rogers, Mass. Aieohol Tax Unit and the Treasury De shall not exceed 1 percent . of , the spirits Chiperfield Ke.an Rolph partment to the q:>mmittee _-on waw dumped, under such :reg,nlations as he shall, Chutch Kearney Rowan Cochran Kelley Sabath -and Means is that it w'i11 require at least With the approval of the Secretary of the Coffee Kilburn Sadow.skl -500 'additional stor-ekeeper gagers to su- Treasury, promulgate." · Crosser Kilday Scanion pervise this dumping and repackaging, Cu1'ley Klebei'g Smith, Wis. and, in ·addition, it will require other With the f-ollowing committee -amend- Curtis Larcade . Snyder ment: · D'Alesapdro Lesinski Somers,N. Y . .clerks, stenographers, and employees.· . Da-y , Lynch Spence Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Chairman, I yield Page 1, 11ne 9, after the word "may", insert Delaney McCormack Springer myself 1 minute. - ' . "{upon the payment of a Iee of JO .cents with Dewey McLean ·Stevenson respect to each such- pack~~ which is to be Dln-gell McMurra,y Sull1van · I eannot permit this last question, regaged and dumped as provided in tbls Eberhartei McWilliams Sundstrom answered in the manner in which it has paragraph) ." Elliott - . Madden Talbot been, to appear in the RECORD. I covered Ellison,.Md. MarcantonJo Torrens The committee .a.men.dnient·was agreed Elston, Ohio Martin, Mass. Vincent, Ky. this subjeet bef.Ore my .colleague from Feigllan Merrow . . Wadswolth Michi~-an came in. I pointed out that to. Fenton Miller, Conn. Walter there are only 122 distillers, and . they The Clerk read as follows: Flsh Miller, Mo. Wasielewski Committee amendment: Page 2, line tn, Fitzpatrick Mills Weichel, Oblo emdd n 1944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-HOUSE, 4771 mat e only after years of experience have ordinary seaman, a deckhand; one was a. sations is selfish in its origin, selfish in proved their ability to assume responsibility. fireman; one was a coal passer
H.QUSE of REPRESENTATIVES Is So Ordered
