Gerlach earns an 'A' for support of veterans

It's report card for members of Congress.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America has released its 2008 Congressional Report Card, rating members of Congress on their support of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) earned an "A" from the group, his campaign reports today.

"IAVA Action's 2008 Congressional Report Card recognizes those lawmakers who refused to compromise on the most important issues facing Iraq and Afghanistan veterans," said Paul Rieckhoff, executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). "From passing a new GI Bill to increasing VA funding by over 10 billion dollars, the 110th Congress has made tremendous progress on behalf of America's newest generation of heroes. Over the last two years, Congressman Gerlach has demonstrated that he is a great friend to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families.IAVA Action is proud to give Congressman Gerlach an A and would like to thank him for his leadership on these critical issues."

From a press release issued by Jim Gerlach For Congress:

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the Troops and Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the civilian supporters of those Troops and Veterans.

"Congressman Gerlach is proud of his record of supporting the brave men and women courageously protecting our freedom on the battlefield and treating them with tremendous dignity and respect when they return home," said Mark Campbell, Gerlach political director. "He looks forward to continue working on behalf of veterans and their families."

Gerlach also has been endorsed by the National Vietnam and Gulf War Veterans Coalition and Veterans' Vision.

To read more about the IAVA Report Card, visit the group's Web site.