ICYMI: Shaheen Delivers Remarks at Greatest Generation Commemorative Coin Unveiling
** Senators Shaheen and Rounds helped get the Greatest Generation Memorial Act signed into law, which authorized the U.S. Treasury to mint commemorative coins for the National World War II Memorial**
[left] Shaheen attends ceremony at the National World War II Memorial [right] Shaheen greets WWII veteran, Senior Master Sergeant Harry Miller
(Washington, DC) -- Yesterday, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, delivered remarks and unveiled a new commemorative coin to be minted by the U.S. Treasury to honor the National World War II Memorial. Proceeds from sales of the commemorative coin will go toward repairs and programming at the memorial.
“When the fate of the free world hung in the balance, the Greatest Generation answered the call to service and prevailed over the forces of tyranny and evil. Each time I see this memorial, I am reminded of the sacrifices made by so many,” said Shaheen. “I was proud to partner with Senator Rounds on this legislation, which will fund repairs and educational programs about World War II. Together, we are ensuring we honor those who served and sacrificed by providing future generations with this beautiful memorial to help honor their legacies.”
In 2022, Senators Shaheen and Rounds led passage of the Greatest Generation Memorial Act in the Senate, before it was ultimately passed by the House and signed into law. Their bill directs the Department of the Treasury to strike and sell commemorative coins to finance much needed repairs at the World War II Memorial in Washington DC. When the bill was introduced in 2021, the National Park Service (NPS) was reporting a $12 billion capital construction backlog, with $1 billion in needed work on the National Mall. Under the act, Treasury is to mint no more than 50,000 gold $5 coins, 400,000 silver $1 coins and 750,000 half-dollar coins. Starting in 2024, the $5 coins are to be sold for $35 each, the $1 coins for $10 each and the half-dollar coins for $5 each. The proceeds will support the National Park Service in maintaining and repairing the National World War II Memorial and provide funding for educational and commemorative programs.
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