As Congress debated the veteran appropriations bill on the House floor last week, my thoughts turned to Flag Day, which is quickly approaching, and what the symbol represents to our veterans. For me, Old Glory symbolizes our freedom and strength, as well as the American spirit that is the envy of the world.
 
Flag Day doesn’t get nearly the attention it deserves, and that is why I am particularly fond of the congressional flag program in which folks back home can request a flag that has been flown over the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. We have dozens of requests each year from Eagle Scouts, veterans or perhaps from a family that would like a new flag hanging outside of their home. The price of the flag depends on size and material, all it takes is a phone call to one of my District offices or a visit to /ConstituentServices/FlagAuth.htm for more information.

I recently received and honored flag requests from two brave service members currently serving overseas, and it struck me as quite poignant as I listened to and participated in debate over the Veterans Affairs legislation on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.

This legislation, which was passed overwhelmingly by the House, will continue funding for the care of our honorable veterans, including the costs of medical care and treatment, along with housing and job training. The legislation also provides funding for the construction of new and, renovation of, existing health clinics, medical residences and nursing homes. Specifically, this bill funds Veterans Affairs medical services at $41.4 billion, which will provide for approximately 6.3 million patients in 2013. This critical legislation will provide our nation’s great military with the infrastructure that is needed to house, train and equip military personnel but also provides for the quality of life of our troops and their families.

Our veterans are indeed among one of the most powerful symbols of the American people. These veterans gave so much so that we and future generations can live in a nation where the words “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” stand as beacons for those seeking refuge from oppression and ignorance. Our flag, another powerful symbol, is perhaps one of the single most powerful physical symbols of freedom on the planet.

Flag Day exists because the American spirit exists, and I encourage you to take a moment and reflect on what this symbol means to you and to those who defended our country on battlefields from Lexington to Baghdad.