Congressman Chris Collins Helps Replace 48-Star American Flag Stolen from Iwo Jima Memorial

Congressman Chris Collins today released the following statement after his office donated a 48-star American Flag to the Town of Wales this past Memorial Day Weekend.

Two weeks ago, a cherished American flag featuring 48-stars was stolen from the Iwo Jima Memorial in the Wales Town Park. The unique 48 stars on the flag represented the exact number of states in the Union at the time American troops stormed Iwo Jima. Congressman Chris Collins joined members of the Wales community to make sure the flag was replaced in time for Memorial Day.

“After reading about the stolen 48-star flag, I immediately reached out to the Town of Wales and the Wales Historical Society to see what my office could do to help,” said Congressman Collins. “When an unfortunate act like this occurs within a community, it is important that we do what we can to rectify the situation. I was proud to offer my help and present a replacement 48-star flag to the Wales community so they can continue to recognize our nation’s veterans. I also, would like to thank Wales Town Supervisor, Rickey Venditti, Robert and Deanna Ziegel from the Wales Historical Society for their leadership in honoring and recognizing the service of our local veterans.”

The replacement 48-star American flag was flown over the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. in recognition of our local veterans.

“The town of Wales is very honored an thankful for Congressman Collins' help with returning this flag to our community,” said Rickey Venditti, Town of Wales Supervisor. “I'd also like to extend a special thank you to the Congressman's staff for working with us as well to present this 48-star flag that was flown over the Capitol Building so we can continue to extend our gratitude for our veterans.”

Deanna Ziegel, Town of Wales Historian, also added, “We are so thrilled that Congressman Collins made the extra effort to deliver this flag for our veterans and community. The Town of Wales certainly took a blow when this flag was stolen. All of the Town residents, including myself, were so happy and honored that he took the time to stop in himself and take the actions necessary to deliver this flag back to us.”

Photos from the event can be viewed here.

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