To amend title 10, United States Code, to recognize the contributions made by the spouses of members of the Armed Forces who serve in combat through the presentation of an official lapel button, and for other purposes.
Directs that a lapel button be designed, as approved by the Secretary of Defense (DOD), to identify and recognize the spouse of a member of the Armed Forces who is serving or has served in a combat zone for more than 30 days. Requires such button to be known as the spouse-of-a-combat-veteran lapel button.
Authorizes the Secretary to use appropriated funds to procure such buttons, and to provide for their presentation to eligible spouses.
States that the 30-day service period shall not apply if the member is killed or wounded before its expiration.
Expresses the sense of Congress that, as soon as the buttons become available, the Secretary should: (1) widely announce their availability through military and public information channels; and (2) encourage commanders at all levels to conduct ceremonies recognizing the support provided by such spouses and to use such ceremonies as an opportunity for members to present their spouses with the button.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.