JEFFERSON CITY -- Sen. Anita Yeckel, R-Sunset Hills, was recently honored by the Missouri Association of Veterans Organizations (MAVO), for her continued efforts to pass legislation benefiting the veterans of the state.

The presentation took place during a special joint meeting of Senate and House committees dealing with veterans' issues. The joint meeting was the finale of the annual Veterans' Day at Capitol on Jan. 17.

"We want to thank someone who has helped veterans so much during the years," said Jim Hughes, chairman of MAVO, when presenting the special award to Sen. Yeckel.

Sen. Yeckel currently serves as chairman of the Senate Financial and Governmental Organization, Veterans' Affairs and Elections Committee. She has served on that committee since her election to the Senate in 1996, and has been chairman since 2001.

Inscribed on the plaque is the following: "In recognition of legislative excellence in support of Missouri's veterans and veterans issues in the State Legislature working for Missouri's heroes, assuring their needs are never forgotten."

Dozens of veterans attended the special joint committee meeting, and leaders from veterans' organizations and the Missouri's Veterans' Commission testified on issues important to the veterans of the state.

Among the MAVO's top priorities is passage of legislation that would eliminate the state income tax on federal retirement pay.

"This proposal certainly deserves merit," Sen. Yeckel said. "Military retirees make excellent citizens, and it is in Missouri's best interest to do all that is reasonable to keep these men and women in Missouri."

Editor's Note: Photographs of Sen. Yeckel receiving the MAVO award can be found on her Senate web page at www.senate.mo.gov/03info/members/mem01.htm and click on the press release link. To have a photo e-mailed to you, contact Christen Jackson, Senate Communications, (573) 751-3824.