WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate passed a resolution introduced by Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) – chairman and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – that commemorates the 80th Anniversary of the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA).

An estimated 130,000 veterans in the United States are legally blind, while more than a million veterans have low vision that may make it difficult or impossible for them to perform certain daily activities. BVA was founded by 100 war-blinded soldiers from World War II and is the only national veteran service organization (VSO) chartered by Congress that is exclusively dedicated to assisting America’s blinded veterans and their families.

“Since 1945, the Blinded Veterans Association has contributed to improving the lives of blinded and low-vision veterans across the United States,” said Sen. Moran. “This resolution is a way to honor their sacrifice, dedication and advocacy that helps veterans who are blind or have low vision, and their families, succeed. I am grateful BVA’s work, supporting legislation and oversight from Congress and at VA and charitable and civic work that enables our nation’s blinded veterans to thrive. I look forward to working with them in the future.”

“For 80 years, the Blinded Veterans Association has played a vital role in ensuring our nation’s blinded and low-vision veterans have access to world-class, quality care,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “With this resolution, we recognize their critical work and honor their unwavering commitment to serving America’s blinded veterans and their families—improving their quality of life and strengthening the community of blinded veterans across the country in the process. Inspired by their fortitude and dedication, I look forward to continuing our work to make sure that blinded veterans are able to receive the care and support they have earned and rightfully deserve.”

This resolution is co-sponsored by Sens. John Boozman (R-Ark.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas).

“For 80 years, the Blinded Veterans Association has stood as a beacon of hope and advocacy for those who sacrificed their sight in service to our nation,” said Paul Mimms, National President of the Blinded Veterans Association. “This resolution not only honors our legacy but reaffirms the critical work that remains. We are committed to ensuring that every blinded veteran receives the support, respect, and opportunities they deserve, and we are grateful for the Senate's continued partnership in this vital mission. 'Blinded veterans helping blinded veterans' remains our unwavering commitment.”

The full text of the resolution here.

# # #