Senate Approves Legislation Honoring Soldiers Lost in War on Terror

The Oklahoma Senate has unanimously approved legislation designed to honor Oklahomans who pay the ultimate price in the War on Terror.

Senator Jay Paul Gumm is the author of Senate Bill 712, would require the governor to order flags on state property to be flown at half-staff on the day of the memorial service for Oklahomans who are killed in combat. The measure was approved Tuesday.

Gumm, a Democrat from Durant, said the SB 712 was a request from a former Senate Page. “Sgt. Todd Anderson of Tishomingo was a Senate Page for me in 2003, and he’s the one who suggested Oklahoma should honor those who give ‘the last full measure of devotion’,” Gumm said.

“This is a common sense suggestion from one of America’s best. I am grateful to Sergeant Anderson for suggesting it, and to my colleagues for unanimously supporting it.”

Gumm said as the events of September 11th, 2001, fall farther into the past, and the national and international media focuses more on the global economic situation, citizens are receiving less news about the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“It is important to remember that we still have young men and women from Oklahoma who are in harm’s way, fighting in defense of freedom,” he said. “We should pray for their safety and protection daily. For those who give all to protect our freedom, we must honor their sacrifice, and Senate Bill 712 is a great way to do that.”

SB 712 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.