The New York State Senate passed legislation making the “Honor and Remember Flag” the official flag for recognizing and honoring armed service members in New York.
New York State Senator Joseph Griffo (R-C-53) and Senator Peter Oberacker (R-C-51), along with Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara (D-111), introduced the bipartisan legislation.
The bill designates the "Honor and Remember Flag" as the official state flag to recognize armed service members who died serving the United States in any war or conflict the nation has been involved in since its inception.
George Lutz's son, George Anthony Lutz II, was killed by a sniper's bullet while on patrol in Iraq in 2005. In response to the devastating loss of his son, Lutz Sr. designed the Honor and Remember Flag as a tribute to all men and women who have lost their lives while serving their country. Several states have officially adopted this flag as a symbol of recognition for military members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“I am pleased that the Senate has passed this bipartisan legislation and am hopeful that the Assembly will do the same,” Griffo said in a news release. “This bill will designate the ‘Honor and Remember Flag’ as an official symbol to recognize and honor members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
“The ‘Honor and Remember Flag’ will serve as a testament to the courageous men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation,” Oberacker said.
“I commend those in Chenango County who brought this bill to our attention for their desire to recognize our brave patriots. My thanks to my Senate colleagues for approving this bill and I look forward to the Assembly taking positive action before the end of the legislative session as well.”
The Bill is expected to pass the Assembly by the end of the legislative session.