To name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Bloomington, Illinois, as the "Andrew Jackson Smith Medal of Honor Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic".
Impact
This bill serves not only as a tribute to Andrew Jackson Smith's heroic actions but also as a symbolic gesture acknowledging the sacrifices made by veterans. By naming the clinic after him, it reinforces the commitment of the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide healthcare services to veterans and their families. This recognition is intended to promote awareness of the clinic and its services, potentially enhancing the community's connection with their veterans.
Summary
House Bill 4689 aims to honor the legacy of Color Sergeant Andrew Jackson Smith by naming the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Bloomington, Illinois, after him. This clinic will be officially designated as the 'Andrew Jackson Smith Medal of Honor Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic'. The change seeks to recognize Smith's extraordinary valor during the Civil War, where he played a pivotal role in carrying his regimental colors under heavy enemy fire, ultimately preventing them from falling into enemy hands.
Contention
While the bill primarily seeks to honor a distinguished individual, the context of assigning such names can sometimes lead to discussions about the adequacy of existing veterans' healthcare systems. Some may argue that focusing on recognitions like this is important, but it should be coupled with a focus on improving services and care facilities for veterans at large. The discussions around the legislation are generally positive, reflecting a shared respect for the contributions of veterans but also an underlying call for continued investment in their healthcare needs.
To name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, the Leonard G. 'Bud' Lomell, VA Clinic, and for other purposes.
To designate the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Lafayette, Louisiana, as the "Rodney C. Hamilton Sr. VA Clinic".
A bill to desginate the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in San Jose, California, as the "Corporal Patrick D. Tillman VA Clinic".
A bill to designate the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Lafayette, Louisiana, as the "Rodney C. Hamilton Sr. VA Clinic".
To name the Department of Veterans Affairs multispecialty clinic in Marietta, Georgia, as the "Colonel Michael H. Boyce Department of Veterans Affairs Multispecialty Clinic".
To rename the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Michigan Center, Michigan, as the "Captain Herbert Elfring VA Clinic".
Strongly Urging The United States Department Of Defense To Maintain All References To The 100th Infantry Battalion And 442nd Regimental Combat Team On Its Websites For The Public.
SENATE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING FEBRUARY 10, 2026, AS "THE 3RD RHODE ISLAND REGIMENT/BLACK REGIMENT RECOGNITION DAY" TO COMMEMORATE THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACK SOLDIERS DURING THE AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR