September 28. 2007

Springfield … Local soldiers killed by hostile fire will now receive proper homage under legislation co-sponsored by State Representative Dennis Reboletti (R-Elmhurst). House Bill 3618 would require that upon notification of a local soldier’s death, the display of the U.S. flag, the State of Illinois flag and the appropriate military flag would be flown at half-staff at each State and local government location in the soldier’s hometown.

“The men and women who pay the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the freedom of the residents of this country deserve proper tribute. In the whole scheme of things, this legislation may seem small and insignificant, but it’s the least that we can do to properly honor and thank our local heroes. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten and we will be eternally grateful for their selfless service,” Reboletti said. “My hope is that local businesses will see this action and follow suit.”

Currently, the President and Governor can order the lowering of their respective flags upon the death of principal figures of the US government and others as a show of respect to their memory.

House Bill 3618 received unanimous support and was signed into law by the Governor. Additional questions can be directed to Reboletti’s office at (630) 530-2730.

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