A resolution commending the "Donut Dollies" for their patriotic service and steadfast support of United States servicemembers in combat and honoring their extraordinary contributions to the morale and well-being of United States servicemembers during wartime.

Bill Number

S.Res. 705

Origin Chamber

Senate

Congress

119th Congress, Session 2

Policy Area

Armed Forces and National Security

Status

Passed Senate

Latest Action

2026-04-29: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2109; text: CR S2136)

Last Updated

2026-05-06T14:41:32Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This Senate Resolution (S. Res. 705) commends the "Donut Dollies"—volunteer women who provided morale-boosting support to U.S. servicemembers during major wars—and honors their contributions, especially in Vietnam.

Key Provisions

• Historical recognition: Details the service of "Doughnut Lassies" (Salvation Army) in World War I, "Donut Dollies" (American Red Cross) in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam's Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas (SRAO) program from 1965–1972.
• Specific achievements: Notes their risks (e.g., travel by helicopter into combat zones, exposure to enemy fire), impact (serving 300,000+ servicemembers monthly at peak), and praise from leaders like General William Westmoreland.
• Resolved clauses:

1. Commends their patriotic service and dedication to servicemember morale.
2. Recognizes World War I Doughnut Lassies as inspiration.
3. Honors Donut Dollies across wars, emphasizing Vietnam SRAO volunteers' courage.
4. Urges preserving and sharing their story as a testament to U.S. wartime spirit.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• None. This is a non-binding resolution expressing Senate sentiment, with no legal force or amendments to statutes.

Potential Impacts

• Symbolic and cultural: Raises awareness of these volunteers' roles, potentially aiding veteran morale, historical preservation, and public appreciation of women's wartime contributions.
• No direct effects: Does not allocate funds, impose requirements, or alter operations for government agencies, citizens, or international relations.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• Donut Dollies and families: Direct honorees, including over 600 Vietnam SRAO volunteers and deceased members (e.g., Hannah E. Crews, Virginia E. Kirsch, Lucinda J. Richter).
• Veterans: Especially Vietnam-era servicemembers who benefited from their support.
• Organizations: American Red Cross and Salvation Army, whose programs are highlighted.
• Congress and public: Encourages broader historical education.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal/Constitutional: None significant; resolutions like this are routine expressions of Congress without enforceable effect.
• Political: Bipartisan support (sponsors: Sens. Tillis, Gillibrand, Boozman, Coons) underscores unity in honoring service; promotes national memory of Vietnam War sacrifices amid ongoing veteran recognition efforts.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Sen. Tillis, Thomas [R-NC]

Cosponsors (3)

Sen. Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [D-NY], Sen. Boozman, John [R-AR], Sen. Coons, Christopher A. [D-DE]

Recent Actions

• 2026-04-29: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2109; text: CR S2136)
• 2026-04-29: Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Versions

• Commending the Donut Dollies for their patriotic service and steadfast support of United States servicemembers in combat and honoring their extraordinary contributions to the morale and well-being of United States servicemembers during wartime. — issued 2026-04-29 — PDF (4 pages)