We’re approaching what’s going to be a monumental summer—the 250th year of our independence. Plans for celebrations, parades, concerts, and exhibitions have all been in the works for years, with good reason, but this occasion also calls on all of us to reflect on why we can celebrate. 

Across generations of Americans, the bravest of us have taken an oath to protect our Constitution, risked everything, and fought for us. Without these individuals, we have no country. I’m proud to cosponsor three new resolutions for America’s veterans as we gear up for the semiquincentennial. 

I know that nothing, including these proposals, will ever be enough to repay our servicemembers, but this is a meaningful step.

1. Veterans Tax Relief Weekends—calls on states to set three-day sales tax holidays during Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day weekend, putting money back in the pockets of the men and women who served.

2. America 250 Military Appreciation Discount—encourages every business nationwide to offer military discounts during our 250th anniversary year, inviting the private sector to express gratitude as well.

3. Veterans Appreciation Month—designates a national month of recognition during America's 250th year, focused on the millions of veterans who have served and sacrificed for us. 

We can do all of this with no new government spending and no new mandates. It’s time for us to honor the patriots who made this year possible in the first place. Veterans deserve all of it and so much more.