05.30.17

Sullivan, Secretary Zinke Meet with Alaska Native Veterans

ANCHORAGE, AK – U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke met with Alaska Native veterans in Anchorage this morning to discuss Sullivan’s Alaska Native Veterans Land Allotment Equity Act. The legislation would allow approximately 2,800 Alaska Natives to apply for their government-promised Native allotments of land that they may have missed due to service in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War era. 

“It was an honor to be able to convene this historic meeting between Secretary Zinke and Alaska Native veterans from across the state to hear their concerns, particularly the need to address the allotment some of them missed due to prior military service,” said Senator Sullivan. “Secretary Zinke, a decorated Navy SEAL, got to witness the special patriotism exhibited by Alaska Natives – how Alaska Natives, generation after generation, have served our country in the military at a higher rate than any other ethnic group. The stories Secretary Zinke heard today were ones I know he will carry with him as he looks to create more opportunity for Alaska Natives and others across the state. I thank Secretary Zinke for coming to our great state and meeting with these great Alaskans.” 

"I appreciate the Senator hosting today's meeting and was honored to have the opportunity to share the morning with so many Alaska Native warriors," said Secretary Zinke. "Like my home state of Montana, Alaska has a strong veteran heritage, and the Native communities hear the call to serve at greater rates than all others. Their warrior ethos and commitment to our nation should be honored by fulfilling the promises that were made to them. As the legislative process moves forward, I look forward to working with Senator Sullivan and his colleagues in Congress bring this critical issue to conclusion." 

Veterans attending the event included George Bennet, Benno Cleveland, Eben Olrun, Jerry Ward, Emil Notti, Bill Thomas, Chester Ballott, Lawrence Armour, Nick Jackson, and Nelson Angapak, Sr.

Senator Lisa Murkowski has cosponsored the legislation, and Rep. Don Young has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

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