[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 176 (Friday, November 2, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1489]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CALLING FOR RECOGNITION OF MILITARY FUNERAL HONOR GUARDS

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                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                  in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 2, 2018

  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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