House bill would honor Ohio soldiers killed in war

By Marc Kovac

The director of veterans services would notify the governor when one of Ohio’s bravest has fallen.

COLUMBUS — The governor would be required to order the lowering of flags when Ohioans serving in the armed forces are killed in action, under legislation introduced in the Ohio House.

“I believe everyone in this room is aware of the incredible sacrifices our armed forces are making every day,” Rep. Kenny Yuko, a Republican from the Cleveland area, testified before the House’s Veterans Affairs Committee. “The legislation I bring before you today would be an expression of compassion to Ohio’s families when one of their own has made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Yuko is primary sponsor of House Bill 90, legislation that would require the director of veterans services to notify the governor when Ohioans are killed in action.

The governor, in turn, would order all state agencies and political subdivisions to fly flags at half-staff on the day of that person’s funeral.

“The conflicts that our armed forces members are involved in do not show any sign of ending in the near future,” Yuko testified. “And, unfortunately, we cannot stop the future loss of Ohio’s citizens that are fighting in these conflicts. We can, however, show our support and reverence for the families that are grieving the loss of their dearly loved father, mother, child or sibling.”

mkovac@dixcom.com