Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – 8/8/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Giving Reservists A Valiant Eternity (GRAVE) Act, legislation to ensure members of the Reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for a government-furnished headstone or grave marker, even if they did not meet the minimum active-duty service threshold currently required by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Under existing law, many reservists who served honorably and stood ready to deploy at a moment’s notice are excluded from receiving a VA headstone or grave marker simply because they were never activated. The GRAVE Act seeks to correct this discrepancy by expanding eligibility to include those who made the commitment to serve, regardless of activation status.

“This is about basic respect. When someone raises their right hand and swears an oath to defend our country, we owe them honor and recognition, especially at life’s end. The GRAVE Act makes sure our reservists aren’t forgotten simply because they weren’t called up. They were always ready, and that’s what matters,” said Congressman Lawler. 

“The Blinded Veterans Association applauds the proposed revision to the GRAVE Act. Expanding entitlement for a headstone or grave marker to include all reservists is a long-overdue and deeply meaningful recognition of their dedicated service. Our reservists stand ready to answer the call, often sacrificing personal and professional lives to protect our nation. Ensuring they receive the same dignified commemoration as their active-duty counterparts is not just about equity, it's about acknowledging the full measure of their commitment. This revision will rightly honor every reservist who has served, providing comfort and a lasting tribute for their families,” said Wade Davis, National Board President of the Blinded Veterans Association.

The GRAVE Act is also endorsed by the Jewish Veterans Association and the Reserve Organization of America.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Full text of the bill can be found HERE.