Urge Congress to recognize US troops who served in Honduras
Summary
HCR 18 is a concurrent resolution urging Congress to formally recognize U.S. troops who served in Honduras between 1981 and 1992. The resolution states that U.S. military personnel were present in Honduras during that period to provide training, conduct exercises, support civil action, and assist the Honduran military, and that they faced hostile fire, imminent danger, terrorist activity, and other hazardous conditions. It specifically asks Congress to authorize an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, or a similar form of recognition for service in an area of hostility, for all troops who served there during the specified years.
The resolution also recites findings that at least one service member received a Purple Heart related to terrorist activity in Honduras and that some troops lost their lives due to hostile or dangerous circumstances. It directs the Ohio House Clerk to send copies of the resolution to congressional leadership, Ohio’s congressional delegation, and Ohio news media, signaling that the measure is intended as a formal appeal to federal lawmakers rather than a change to Ohio law.
Impact
Because HCR 18 is a concurrent resolution, it does not amend Ohio statutes, create new state programs, or impose legal obligations on state agencies or private parties. Its practical effect is limited to expressing the General Assembly’s position and transmitting that request to Congress. Any actual recognition, medal authorization, or veterans’ benefit change would require federal action, not state law.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment is strongly supportive and commemorative. The resolution reflects a favorable view of military service and a desire to honor veterans who served in a hostile environment, with no indication of opposition in the available record. The bill’s framing suggests bipartisan or at least broadly sympathetic appeal, centered on recognition of sacrifice and service rather than policy controversy.
Contention
The main point of contention, if any, is not within Ohio law but in the underlying federal recognition request: whether service in Honduras from 1981 to 1992 should qualify for an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal or comparable hostile-duty recognition. Supporters emphasize hostile fire, terrorist activity, and casualties as justification, while any skepticism would likely focus on whether the service meets existing federal criteria for expeditionary or combat-related awards. No committee debate or recorded votes are available, so there is no documented in-state opposition.
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