On October 29, 2013, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch’s legislation, H.R. 2185, The “Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act,” passed on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives as part of H.R. 2189.  H.R. 2189, introduced by Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Jeff Miller, establishes a commission to examine the current disability claims backlog at the Veterans Affairs Administration.  The bill passed by a vote of 404-1.

The “Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act” calls for two minutes of silence every Veterans Day to recognize and reflect on the service and sacrifices of all veterans, past and present.  Its set time of 2:11 EST allows for all 50 states and Puerto Rico to take part.

“We owe these brave men and women so much.  They put their lives on the line every day for us and for our country.  This moment of silence is a way for all Americans to come together, regardless of ideology, and give our veterans the thanks they deserve,” said Congressman Lynch.

The “Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act” was the inspiration of the Bendetson family:  Daniel, Michael, and their father, Dr. Peter Bendetson, of Weston, Massachusetts.

“It was my privilege to bring forth this bill on behalf of the Bendetsons,” said Congressman Lynch.  “Taking time to give thanks to our brave military is something we can all agree on.  I am grateful to Chairman Miller and Ranking Member Michael Michaud for incorporating my bill into H.R. 2189 and am pleased that it has passed.”