Twenty-one members will be participating (9 Republicans and 12 Democrats) in the bipartisan initiative, led by Congresswoman Fudge and the National Guard and Reserve Caucus, to invite Iraq War Veterans to the State of the Union Address.

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) invited an Iraq War Veteran from the 11th district of Ohio to join her at the State of the Union address on Jan. 24.

Joseph Collins, who served in Iraq in 2005, is an honorably discharged Marine Sergeant.

“In the 112th Congress, we might be divided on many issues, but we find common ground in the fulfillment of our nation’s obligation to our service members and their families. This is a small gesture that only begins to show my gratitude to those who have honorably served our country.  This invitation gives them the opportunity to hear from our Commander in Chief about his vision for our nation, a nation they risked their lives to protect.”

“The men and women who have returned from Iraq will be met with challenges, but we must be aggressive in making sure resources are available for job seeking, education, housing, and wellness. I asked my colleagues to join me in honoring these American heroes with an invitation to the State of the Union address.”

Marine Sergeant (E5) Joseph Collins, a resident of Cleveland, Ohio, served in Iraq from 2005 to 2006. He attended East Technical High School and joined the Marines after graduation. He served with the 8th Communications Battalion Service Company Motor Transport. After leaving active duty, Collins found it difficult to transition back to civilian life and has worked several short-term jobs for the past few years. He has been unemployed since January 2011 but is holding out hope that he will land a job soon.  Sergeant Collins explained that he has served in many managerial positions in the past and enjoys working with people.  He said it is a blessing that he will have the opportunity to attend the State of the Union and hear President Obama address the nation.

Twenty-one members will be participating (9 Republicans and 12 Democrats) in the bipartisan initiative, led by Congresswoman Fudge and the National Guard and Reserve Caucus, to invite Iraq War Veterans to the State of the Union Address.

Veterans sat in the House gallery during the President’s speech on Jan. 24.