FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 30, 2008
CONTACT: Michael Houston, IAVA (212) 982-9699 or

 Landmark New GI Bill Signed into Law Today
Educational Benefits More than Double for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans

NEW YORK - This morning, President Bush signed into law a World War II-style GI Bill for America's newest generation of veterans.  Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the nation's first and largest nonpartisan Iraq and Afghanistan veterans' organization, has been working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle for more than a year to ensure that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans get the educational benefits they deserve, and applauds today's extraordinary news. 

"This is a day of incredible celebration for our country's newest generation of veterans and their families.  Thanks to today's passage of a modern GI Bill, the future is much brighter for the more than 1.6 million Americans who have served in the current conflicts," said Paul Rieckhoff, Executive Director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. "In supporting this GI Bill, Senators Webb, Hagel, Warner, Lautenberg and hundreds of other lawmakers laid aside their partisan differences and put the troops first.  Their vision and perseverance will change the course of an entire generation.  IAVA is also grateful to its tens of thousands of members nationwide who participated in the fight for a new GI Bill."

The GI Bill passed today closely resembles the educational benefits that were offered to World War II veterans which helped to create the "Greatest Generation." The new legislation substantially increases the educational benefits available to members of the military who have served sufficient time on active duty since September 11, 2001.  It provides the full cost of tuition and enrollment fees up to the most expensive public college in each state and includes a monthly housing stipend and $1,000 per year for books and supplies.  For troops committed to serving at least ten years in the military, the benefits can be transferred to a servicemember's spouse or children.

"This new GI bill gives Iraq and Afghanistan veterans a chance at a first class future," said Patrick Campbell, Legislative Director for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. "Our nation has renewed its social contract with our men and women in uniform and their families."

Much more information on the new GI Bill, including how servicemembers can access their new benefits, is at www.GIBill2008.org

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (www.IAVA.org) is the nation's first and largest group for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  A non-profit and nonpartisan organization, IAVA represents more than 95,000 veteran members and civilian supporters in all 50 states. To arrange an interview with IAVA Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff, Legislative Director Patrick Campbell, or any other IAVA member veterans, please contact Michael Houston at (212) 982-9699 or .

###