FAIRFAX — President Barack Obama said this morning helping U.S. service members and veterans continue their education is not only an investment in their future but in the country's future as well.

Obama spoke today at a ceremony marking enactment of what's called the post-9/11 GI Bill.

The maximum benefit under the law will allow every eligible veteran, serviceman and woman, Reservist and National Guard member to attend a public college or university for free.

The bill went into effect Saturday.

It is the most comprehensive education benefit offered since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the original GI Bill in 1944.