Broun Urges President To Fly U.S. Flag In Haiti
U.S. Representative Paul C. Broun, M.D. (GA-10) today urged President Barack Obama to reconsider his decision to cease flying the U.S. flag in Haiti. In a letter to the President, Dr. Broun wrote:
"As the United States extends a helping hand to the destitute nation of Haiti, I am disheartened with accompanying news reports that the United States military installations engaged in humanitarian efforts have been ordered to cease flying the American flag to avoid the appearance of a military occupation," wrote Broun. "As a Marine and Naval medical officer, I believe that our military should always work under the American flag, even when our presence in a foreign country is under peaceful conditions. As a symbol of peace and prosperity, the absence of our flag puts the morale of our troops, as well as our humanitarian mission in Haiti, at stake.
"Concerned veterans and active duty military soldiers in my district have contacted my office to express their concern about the issue. As a sign of respect and support for the selfless efforts of service men and women here and abroad, I urge you to honor their requests to fly the American flag."
Below is a copy of the entire letter:
Dear Mr. President:
As the United States extends a helping hand to the destitute nation of Haiti, I am disheartened with accompanying news reports that the United States military installations engaged in humanitarian efforts have been ordered to cease flying the American flag to avoid the appearance of a military occupation.
After the largest earthquake ever recorded in Haiti devastated the small, impoverished nation on January 12, 2010, the United States Government has provided over $2.95 million dollars in humanitarian assistance to meet immediate needs on the ground. Despite the United States providing the largest source of humanitarian aid, our servicemen and women are not permitted to fly the American flag over our compounds there.
As a Marine and Naval medical officer, I believe that our military should always work under the American flag, even when our presence in a foreign country is under peaceful conditions. As a symbol of peace and prosperity, the absence of our flag puts the morale of our troops, as well as our humanitarian mission in Haiti, at stake. Concerned veterans and active duty military soldiers in my district have contacted my office to express their concern about the issue. As a sign of respect and support for the selfless efforts of service men and women here and abroad, I urge you to honor their requests to fly the American flag.
The United States has a proven track record of providing critical monetary and logistical aid to nations around the globe. In each of these instances, the American flag has been flown to represent the American people's desire to promote democracy, liberty, and good will for all. Now more than ever, it is prudent that the American flag flies wherever our men and women in uniform are serving as ambassadors of the American spirit of re-building hope, prosperity and opportunity.
I remain optimistic that we can work together to ensure the United States' presence in Haiti is viewed in a positive light.
Given the timely nature of this request, I look forward to receiving your prompt reply.
Respectfully,
Paul C. Broun, M.D.
Member of Congress