[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 35 (Thursday, March 15, 2001)]
[House]
[Page H944]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       FLAG PROTECTION AMENDMENT

  (Mr. GRUCCI asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. GRUCCI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as an original cosponsor of the 
Flag Protection Amendment which was introduced earlier this week with 
the support of 109 of my fellow members.
  The Flag amendment embodies the hopes and sacrifices and freedoms of 
this great Nation. The American flag is more than just a symbol. It is 
the fabric that binds our Nation, its citizens, and those brave 
individuals who have sacrificed to preserve our unity and independence.
  Mr. Speaker, I remember June 29 of last year, when I was joined by 
more than 75 Long Island veterans and high school students as we called 
upon our Federal officials to pass a similar measure.
  The meaning of the American flag could be easily seen in the eyes of 
these veterans. It is easy to be seen in the eyes of our children who 
every day look upon the flag as they recite their Pledge of Allegiance 
as the start of each school day begins.
  There is not a place setting or an event where the American flag is 
flown where its true meaning is not understood.
  To those in need, when they see the Stars and Stripes, they know 
America has arrived to help.
  To our neighbors around the world, the flag means an ally is not far 
away.
  Mr. Speaker, I call upon my colleagues to once again in overwhelming 
numbers support the flag protection amendment in the 107th Congress.

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