Jim Nussle: “I would like to offer my voice of support for House Joint Resolution 95, designating an official flag for the Medal of…”

“I would like to offer my voice of support for House Joint Resolution 95, designating an official flag for the Medal of Honor. Since the Civil War, American soldiers who distinguish themselves in defense of our nation have been honored with the Medal of Honor. In fact, it was at the suggestion of Iowa Senator James Grimes, in 1861, that the Medal of Honor was created. All members of our armed forces are patriots, but the 3,458 soldiers who have received this honor have gone far above and beyond the call of duty. In defense of our nation, they have risked or given up their lives, so that so many can live freely as Americans. In this time of war, as the veterans of the future selflessly defend American freedom and values in the far corners of the world, it is appropriate to move a step further to designate a special flag for Medal of Honor recipients. Its simplicity--thirteen white stars on a blue field, just like the medal it accompanies--allows us all to remember the tremendous cost that a small number of soldiers have paid to ensure our freedom.”