JEFFERSON CITY—The Honor and Remember flag was raised today for the first time on the
Missouri Capitol grounds. The noteworthy occasion is a result of legislation filed and handled by Sen. Paul LeVota, D-Independence, during the 2013 session.

LeVota led the effort last year to allow the memorial flag to be flown at state buildings and parks in recognition of American service members who have died in combat.

“As a state, and as citizens, we have a duty to recognize our military members’ sacrifices, and to acknowledge the costs they paid in defense of home and country,” said LeVota. “This flag represents our unwavering gratitude to the brave men and women who gave their lives to preserve the democracy we’ve built, and a humble reminder of the sometimes high price of freedom.”

The Honor and Remember flag memorializes the sacrifice of American services members who have died while serving their country. The emblem was created by the parents of a soldier who lost his life while serving in Fallujah, Iraq.

“I was honored and humbled to support the measure,” said LeVota. “But the real credit goes to the veterans and military families who testified on the importance of this bill, and worked tirelessly to see their fallen brothers and sisters in arms recognized. They have my deepest thanks.”