Rep. Hans Zeiger, R-Puyallup, has introduced legislation that would allow veterans and individuals serving on active duty in the United States armed forces to purchase a military service award emblem for display on license plates.

House Bill 2312, would allow recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, Silver Star, and Bronze Star to purchase these special emblems for their license plates, with proceeds going toward a fund in the state Department of Veterans Affairs to honor veterans.

"Every day those who serve or have served our country and protected our great nation walk among us. Yet, we don't always know who they are. This bill is an opportunity to recognize our heroes," said Zeiger.

Ed Porter of Puyallup, a D-Day veteran who served in Patton's Third Army, approached Zeiger about the legislation. Porter earned the Silver Star after risking his life to save a wounded comrade in fighting at Brest, France. Zeiger had subsequent conversations with veterans organizations, including the American Legion, that led him to introduce the bill.

Rep. Zeiger's bill had a public hearing last week in the House Transportation Committee.