HARRISBURG – Legislation recognizing the service of Pennsylvania veterans who served in the United States Merchant Marine during World War II was introduced today by Rep. John Maher (R-40) during a press conference at the Capitol.

The bill, known as the United States Merchant Marine World War II Veterans Bonus Act, would provide a bonus of $500 to each of the approximately 3,000 Pennsylvanian Merchant Marines who have honorable discharges from serving during the war.

Other World War II veterans received the same dollar amount more than 50 years ago for appreciation of their services," said Maher. " My legislation simply provides Merchant Marines who served in the war the same recognition as veterans from other branches of the military.

Those serving in the Merchant Marine during World War II had a greater casualty rate than any other branch of the Armed Forces," said Maher. "They faced attacks by air and sea while also battling sometimes treacherous weather conditions.

The transporting of supplies, personnel and equipment to our soldiers was critical to the war effort," said Maher. "The speed of the ships and the cargo they carried directly affected the ability of America to fight the war."

"When victory is finally ours, …[none] will share its credit more deservedly than the Merchant Marine."

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United States Merchant Marine veterans deserve to be recognized and thanked for their service by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - even at this late date," said Maher.

Joining Maher at the press conference were Merchant Marines from across the state who served in World War II. Several of the veterans who shared their personal stories at sea during the war included Bill Hoza and Mike McKee of the Merchant Marines Three Rivers Chapter and Bill Joyce and Phil Kreps.

State Reps. Jeff Habay (R-30), Mike Turzai (R-28), Michael McGeehan (D-173), Susan Laughlin (D-16), Marie Lederer (D-175), and Fred Trello (D-45) were also present to support the bill.