Shaheen, Hassan Announce Support for Bipartisan Effort to Honor World War II Army Rangers

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) announced their support for bipartisan legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the U.S. Army Rangers Veterans of World War II, in recognition of their extraordinary service. All members of the World War II-era Ranger Battalions were volunteers, whose service contributed greatly to the military success of the United States and our Allies. 

“Army Rangers fought in some of the most intense combat operations of World War II and helped to lay the groundwork for our modern Ranger units,” said Senator Shaheen. “Their bravery and commitment to duty personifies all that is great about the greatest generation. They are deserving of the Congressional Gold Medal and our deep and lasting gratitude. This bipartisan bill would honor our American heroes, which is long overdue.” 

“I am profoundly grateful for the service of the men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to keep our country safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “The Army Rangers of World War II demonstrated the utmost bravery, volunteering to be the first to enter enemy zones and paving the way to victory. As a Senator and the daughter of a World War II veteran, it is a real honor to be able to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to recognize these exemplary men and work to bestow upon them the Congressional Gold Medal.” 

The first Army Ranger combat operations took place on August 19, 1942, when 50 Rangers took part in a raid on the French coastal town of Dieppe. Rangers went on to serve in major combat operations in both the European and Pacific Theaters. The units formed the basis of current day Army Ranger battalions. 

The text of the legislation can be found here.