Delegate Christensen Speaks in Support of Displaying Flags of U.S. Territories at Military Installations

(Washington, D.C. – November 28, 2012) – Delegate to Congress Donna M. Christensen joined her colleagues representing the U.S. Territories today in calling attention to the importance of the flags of the five territories and the District of Columbia being displayed at all U.S. military installations.

“Like each all 50 states, each US territory has its own flag which we hold in high honor just as we do the stars and stripes of our nation,” said Congresswoman Christensen during her special order speech Wednesday.  “As proud Americans who have sacrificed for our nation in every conflict it should naturally follow that wherever and whenever all flags from all 50 states are represented, we also see the flags of the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands right alongside - just as our men and women serve bravely alongside other Americans on the battlefield.”

Congresswoman Christensen said for the second consecutive year, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan of the Northern Mariana Islands has successfully worked to include this provision in the National Defense Authorization Act, however last year the measure was added to the FY2012 version of the Act, but it was opposed by the Senate due to cost.

Christensen called on the Senate to adopt the House bill that includes the language. “We are tired of being overlooked in programs and initiatives, but we first draw the line at disrespecting our soldiers and by extension my constituents and those of my fellow Delegates,” said Congresswoman Christensen.

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