Ukrainian American Veterans

Ukrainian American Veterans
Reasons for a Federal Charter Page

The reasons that the UAV desires a Federal Charter:

" To assume an equal status and feel as equal partners with American military organizations which already have a charter

" To have the ability to broaden charitable and support activities

" To be able to participate in the various ceremonies and planning sessions held to honor our country's veterans; i.e. anecdote: during the Veterans' Day ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, UAV National Commander was unable to sit on the podium with the President because we do not have a charter. The Master of Ceremonies introduced National Commanders of chartered groups such as the VFW, Jewish War Veterans of the USA, The Polish Legion of American Veterans, USA and many others, while the UAV could not be mentioned because it is not federally chartered. Americans of Ukrainian descent have valiantly served and fought side by side with the men and women of other ethnic backgrounds during all of this nation's wars and conflicts, but have been unable to receive full recognition by our government.

" The Ukrainian American community has been supporting our organization in its charter efforts; a charter would make the UAV the only Ukrainian American organization to be recognized by the US Government. There is concern in the community that despite efforts spanning several years, the UAV has not received the support necessary from legislators. Since Ukraine became an independent nation in 1991, it has remained a staunch ally of the United States and has had troops fighting in several conflicts including Bosnia and Iraq. In view of this fact and the fact that each wave of Ukrainian immigrants (since the late 1880's) has served in the military of the United States, it is important to the entire Ukrainian American community that the UAV be granted a Federal Charter.

Our website has a recent publication of the UAV Tribune available, which I hope you find of interest. Our website, www.uavets.org, contains additional information about the UAV.

The UAV has been pursuing a Federal Charter for some time now. We are perplexed as to why it has not been successful as of yet. All we are asking for is that Ukrainian American Veterans be recognized. We are seeking overwhelming bi-partisan support.

Letters seeking support have been sent to:

" The President of the United States
" Minority Whip
" Majority Whip
" Democratic Leader
" Majority Leader
" Armed forces and Veterans related Committee leadership.

Many Ukrainian American publications, churches, various organizations and websites are strong supporters of our cause.

UAV Home Page

UAV Information Page

Copyright © 2005 by the
Ukrainian American Veterans, Inc. All rights reserved.