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06/14/2016 12:55 PMStars and stripes flown over the state capitol, made in America, were presented to Branford Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 12106 members today, National Flag Day.
"A lot of people have shed their blood for this flag and died (or sustained) severe wounds," said Branford VFW Commander Elliot Hastings. "It's an honor to receive this, and we'll definitely make use of it."
State Senator Ted Kennedy Jr. (D, District 12) and State Representative Lonnie Reed (D, District 102) presented the flag to Hastings with First Selectman James B. Cosgrove and members of the VFW looking on at a brief event at Branford's VFW Hall this morning.
"This day has been recognized by our government as the day when we honor the American flag and what it symbolizes; the freedom that it symbolizes," said Kennedy. "We're here at the VFW Hall in Branford because we stand in gratitude to the men and woman who have worn the uniform and protect each and every day and remind us that freedom is not free."
Reed read a certification from the state confirming a request by herself, Kennedy and State Rep. Sean Scanlon (D, District 98) to have the flag flown over the state capitol on June 10 , 2016, in honor of Flag Day, June 14, for Branford VFW. Reed also remarked that the flag, like all flown at the capitol, is one that's made in America, thanks to an effort started by veterans in the state legislature.
"A few years ago, actually before I was in the legislature, I was told that some of our veteran members in the General Assembly discovered that the flags that we were flying (were) made in China and not in the USA," said Reed. "So we passed a law to insist that all of the flags that we fly in the state are made in the USA. This (flag) is made in the USA (and) I've got to tell you they fly; they last, they're very durable and they love the catch the air," said Reed.
Cosgrove thanked the legislators and the veterans, saying he especially was grateful to Branford's veterans for "...the strong presence here in Branford, and having such an active veterans' group that ensures we don't lose sight of the cost of freedom that we have; the sacrifices they have given in order for us to live in such a great country."
Cosgrove also noted Americans " ...pledge allegiance to the flag, one nation, under God, indivisible," adding, "...with everything that's going on in the world and the country today, we just need to remain true to those core beliefs."