Coloradans from Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick, Amherst, Holyoke, and Haxtun volunteered at the North Platte Canteen
WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts in introducing the North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act. The bill would award the Congressional Gold Medal to the collective individuals and communities who volunteered or donated food and other items to the North Platte Canteen in North Platte, Nebraska, during World War II. Coloradans from Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick, Amherst, Holyoke, and Haxtun volunteered at the North Platte Canteen.
“The North Platte Canteen volunteers stepped up to the plate to support our soldiers traveling to the war. Their patriotism and sacrifice sets an example for all of us,” said Hickenlooper.
“This bill honors our history and the Coloradans, Nebraskans, and many others, who volunteered at the North Platte Canteen during World War II. These Americans generously donated their time, hospitality, and essential supplies to support millions of servicemembers. I am grateful for their service and the example they set for all of us,” said Bennet.
“The communities in the North Platte of Colorado and Nebraska were saviors for our military troops traveling long distances to the war fronts of the Pacific and Europe. The volunteers along the railroad lines in the North Platte dedicated countless hours and resources in honor of our Troops and to instill pride that our military is valued and prized. The North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act is essential to recognize the value of the war effort and the contributions made to our Troops and our Country,” said Gerri Rimpley, State Commander, Colorado Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
The North Platte Canteen was a railroad stop in North Platte, Nebraska, that was recognized during World War II for providing hospitality to soldiers traveling through the area. An estimated 55,000 people from 125 communities throughout Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas contributed food, money, or time to serve the Canteen’s estimated 6 million visitors. The Canteen operated from Christmas Day, 1941, to April 1, 1946, and was the largest community-based canteen in the U.S. and one of the largest volunteer efforts during World War II.
The text of the bill is available HERE.
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