WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA) offered a bipartisan amendment to add the text of his legislation, the Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act, to H.R. 4435, the National Defense Authorization Act. Congressman Charles Boustany (R-LA), a senior member of the House Committee on Ways and Means, served as a co-sponsor of the amendment. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives approved the amendment by voice vote and passed the larger National Defense Authorization Act the next day.

Congressman Lynch said, “We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to America’s veterans who have served to protect and defend our country and the ideals that we cherish. This moment of silence is a simple but meaningful way for all of us to come together to acknowledge their sacrifices, express our thanks, and to let them and their families know we have not forgotten their service to our country.”

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

“It was my honor and privilege to offer this amendment on behalf of the Bendetsons,” continued Lynch. “I am very pleased that it passed in the House of Representatives and I thank Congressman Boustany for his support.”