Division approves Honor and Remember Flag to support soldiers killed in line of duty

The American flag has long been a national symbol of our country. But another flag could also be flown at government buildings and elsewhere to show support for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to keep freedom free.

Approved Monday by the House Veterans Affairs Division, HF146 would designate the Honor and Remember Flag as a symbol of our state’s concern and commitment to those who have lost their lives while serving in the armed forces.

“All we want is for people to never forget our fallen heroes,” said Tracy Clark, whose son, Ryane, was killed in Afghanistan in October 2010.

Sponsored by Rep. Bob Dettmer (R-Forest Lake), the bill next goes to the House State Government Finance Committee. A companion, SF362, sponsored by Sen. Bruce Anderson (R-Buffalo), awaits action by the Senate State Departments and Veterans Budget Division.

“In no way is it to take the place of the Stars and Stripes,” Dettmer said.

“I know the sentiment is we aren’t replacing Old Glory, but to some of us vets it feels like that,” said Rep. John Persell (DFL-Bemidji). “I’ve got so much sentiment wrapped up in Old Glory that I can’t imagine anything else. … It feels kind of funny to have another flag.”

A combat veteran, Rep. Jerry Newton (DFL-Coon Rapids) expressed similar concerns. “It strikes me as strange to even think of another flag.”

The bill suggests nine days the flag be flown, including Armed Forces Day, Flag Day, July 4 and Veterans Day, however, the decision on which dates the flag would be flown would be left to the chief administrator of each governmental building or facility.

“We’re not making it mandatory to fly,” Dettmer said.

Pat LaBelle, board member for the Minnesota chapter of Honor and Remember, Inc., said 20 states, including Wisconsin and South Dakota, have adopted the flag, five other states have given an endorsement and legislation is pending in 20 others.

The nonprofit organization aims to provide a customized Honor and Remember Flag to immediate families of service members killed in action, including the soldier’s name and date and location of their death.