Committee Advances Bill to Provide Oklahoma Flags to Families of Fallen Soldiers

The Senate Committee on Veterans and Military Affairs on Wednesday approved legislation that would direct the state to provide Oklahoma flags to families of Armed Forces members killed in action.

Sen. Dan Newberry authored Senate Bill 2037 to honor the sacrifice of fallen veterans to their country and the state of Oklahoma.

“We can never do enough to honor our fallen soldiers for their contribution and sacrifice,” said Newberry, R-Tulsa. “This legislation would offer us a chance to show our gratitude for the way our soldiers represented our country and state. These men and women are a reminder of what our country stands for.”

SB 2037 would direct the Department of Central Services to furnish an Oklahoma state flag to any member of the U.S. Armed Forces who is killed in the line of duty, and was an Oklahoma state resident. The flag would be mailed to the surviving spouse, or parents.

“It’s a privilege to be involved in this effort,” Newberry said. “The men and women of our military bravely represent our state and country and risk their lives to preserve the safety and freedoms we enjoy at home. They are heroes in every sense and they deserve to be honored by the state for their sacrifice.”

SB 2037 now moves to the full Senate for consideration.