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U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson salutes newly formed U.S. Veterans Chamber of Commerce

Published: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 11:07 AM CDT
Last Friday in Plano U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3rd Dist.-Texas) attended the first formal ribbon-cutting ceremony for the recently formed United States Veterans Chamber of Commerce at Veterans Direct, Inc.


“I know that there are great things in store for this group because y’all share the love of country, the bonds of combat, the fight for freedom and the spirit of free enterprise. Y’all know America is the best country in the world and y’all know that our country is worth fighting for,” exclaimed Johnson, a 29-year Air Force veteran who spent nearly seven years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, more than half of that time in solitary confinement.

“When I retired from my 29 years in the Air Force, I started a homebuilding business here in North Texas. Let me tell you – having a Veterans Chamber of Commerce would have been a tremendous resource and such a help. Y’all would have been a lifeline for me. I’m surprised that this group was not created sooner because it seems like a common-sense idea that would serve our communities and our countrymen,” continued Johnson to more than 70 supporters.

The Mission Statement of the United States Veterans Chamber of Commerce is: “Advance the spirit of veteran enterprise with leadership, integrity and vision.” The Chamber’s main ambition is to promote increased trade and business relations between veterans and business owners and the community at large. It also will offer services on a commercial basis, such as advice and information on the economic conditions and laws governing veteran-owned businesses and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.

“I know I would have appreciated just talking with folks in the same boat and knowing that I wasn’t alone. I really would have benefited from learning how to deal with paperwork and what I needed to think about and plan for before I started a business and once it got off the ground,” confessed Johnson.

In addition, the Veterans Chamber will support civic, social and economic interests of the local area and promote unity to build a stronger business community.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to all who have worn the uniform. Thank you for all you’re doing to empower those who have put service before self. While I am not surprised, I could not be prouder that the Lone Star State is home to the first-ever United States Veterans Chamber of Commerce. God bless Texas,” stated Johnson.

Veterans Direct is owned by Sergeant Major Gene Overstreet, 12th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and specializes in custom-made, military branch specific caskets for veterans, among other things.

Former soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines interested in learning more about the United States Veterans Chamber of Commerce should call 888-998-2126 or go to www.usvcc.com.

Johnson represents portions of Dallas and Collin Counties.



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