Calling for Recognition of Military Funeral Honor Guards

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to draw attention to an important issue facing our service members and veterans.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, over 500,000 veterans are dying each year. Under a law passed in 2000, many of these men and women qualify for military honors at their funerals, including a two-person honor guard. These honor guards perform an impressive ceremony that includes folding and presenting the flag of the United States and playing Taps. This demonstration of our nation's unceasing appreciation is incredibly important to family, friends, and the entire veterans community.

The Indiana National Guard, like in other states, strives to provide funeral teams whenever possible. Unfortunately, with so many veterans passing each year, there are too few men and women prepared to render honors. Service members and veterans in my hometown of Indianapolis recognized this shortage and organized the Indy Metropolitan Military Honor Guard to meet the need, averaging 400 funerals per year and amassing over 9,600 man hours and 56,000 miles traveled.

Those who serve in our Armed Forces never do so for accolades or honors. Yet, we honor them with medals and ribbons to recognize their service and tell the story of their achievements. In Indiana, the National Guard decorates funeral team members and the Metro Military Honor Guard provides a ribbon to be worn by its participants. Yet, this is not the case across much of the country. Service members and veterans who serve on honor guards are providing a valuable service and should be decorated for their contribution.

Mr. Speaker, today I'm pleased to recognize all the service members and veterans who serve on honor guards across the country. I call on all states to follow Indiana's example and adopt a ribbon to recognize these dedicated individuals.

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