Rosa DeLauro Remarks at Fallen Flags Project Honoring Veterans Day

"The American flag symbolizes our society… in whichall of us, if we work hard, can realize our dreams and aspirations."

NEWHAVEN, CT—This morning Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) participated in theunveiling of the Fallen Flags Project at New Haven City Hall. The ceremony, inhonor of tomorrow's Veterans Day holiday, featured flags made by Connecticutartist Rebecca Fellows composed of the images of 6,389 fallen soldiers.

"Thesoldiers we have lost in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well in the other wars in ourhistory, fought to protect invaluable treasures: the freedom andopportunity that are the cornerstones of our society. Because of theirefforts, we are free to speak our minds, meet with whom we choose, worshipwhere we choose, elect our leaders, and live under laws that are a model aroundthe world. This is the tremendous gift bestowed us by our fallen veterans.

"Whentheir nation asked them to, these Americans put on the uniform, they wentoverseas, they fought to keep us safe, and they gave the ultimate sacrifice inthe line of duty. Their service will always be honored and never beforgotten. In the Fallen Flags Project, Rebecca has crafted a beautiful,heartfelt, and poignant memorial to these fallen heroes.

"TheAmerican flag symbolizes our society – a society in which all of us, if we workhard, can realize our dreams and aspirations. A society these men and womenfought and died to protect.

"Tothe families of these fallen heroes, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ournation owes you a debt that can never possibly be repaid. We are grateful foryour sacrifice, and we are so sorry for your loss."

DeLaurois a longtime supporter of ensuring that the brave men and women who serve ourcountry, as well as their families, have access to the medical care they need,an affordable education and opportunities for a good, well-paying job.