WWII Mariners Seek $1,000 'Thank You'

"St. Louis, MO, United States (AHN) - World War II mariners in Missouri are behind a bill that would compensate them $1,000 monthly as a belated "thank you" from Congress, according to reports.

Merchant mariners shared the same duties and experiences with soldiers, but under the GI bill were not eligible for the same benefits as soldiers, according to online sources.

Thousands of mariners served in WWII, but it was not until 1988 that they were eligible for veteran's benefits, including military burial and health care, online sources state.

The Department of Veterans Affairs reportedly said that the bill would cost over $100 million the first year and cause a deluge of war-service groups to come forward looking for compensation for time served."

WWII Mariners Seek $1,000 'Thank You' | AHN