Newsletter: 08/15/2014

Statement

Earlier this summer I had the opportunity to meet with veterans from across our state participating in an Honor Flight from Utah to Washington, DC. I gathered with the group at their departure, and our congressional delegation visited the group in Washington as well. Across the country, groups of veterans, especially those who have served in World War II, visit our nation's capital as members of Honor Flight programs, which celebrate their exceptional service to our country.

During their time in Washington, veterans visit a number of locations in Washington, DC, including Arlington Cemetery and the World War II Memorial. Many of the men and women who served in World War II, who may have previously visited the capital, have not had the opportunity to solemnize their service at the memorial which opened in 2004 and is dedicated to their bravery and sacrifice. It is deeply moving to see our greatest generation pay tribute to their fellow soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines and to be a part of honoring them as well.

This fall, in September and October, additional Honor Flights will depart Utah for Washington, DC. I plan to participate again, and hope you will join me. You can learn more about the flights by visiting the official site, http://www.utahhonorflight.org/home.html. Some specific ways you and your family can support the Honor Flight include helping with the Utah sendoff and return which are patriotic celebrations of service, or by serving as a guardian who accompanies a veteran on the trip. While there will never be an adequate way to fully honor the courage and commitment of our veterans or to thank them for their service, participating in an Honor Flight is one tangible way to pay tribute.

One small way the House has honored these veterans was by passing the Honor Flight Act (HR 4812) on July 22, 2014. I was proud to support this measure, which requires the Transportation Security Administration, in collaboration with the Honor Flight Network or other not-for-profit organizations that honor military veterans, to develop a process for providing expedited and dignified passenger screening services for veterans traveling on private charter flights to visit war memorials built and dedicated to honor their service. Saving these veterans time and showing them the respect they have earned is one small way we can thank these brave men and women.

I am honored to serve in Congress on behalf of Utah families like yours. As your representative, I always appreciate hearing from you on current topics and issues affecting you and our community. Please let me know areas you find especially interesting or where I can provide you with additional information. I value your ideas and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

U.S. Representative
4th District of Utah

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