Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States giving Congress power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Joint Resolution 47. This is the House joint resolution for the constitutional amendment to ban the burning of the American flag.

For 232 years, the Stars and Stripes have been a unique symbol of freedom and democracy across the world. It is the embodiment of all we are and of all we stand for as a Nation. Millions of our young men and women, including my father and uncles, bravely and selflessly defended their country under that flag. Every day, our servicemembers risk their lives in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the globe to protect the ideals it represents.

To burn or to desecrate our flag, even in political protest, is an affront to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and to the many others who have served.

I am proud to be a cosponsor of this resolution. I urge all of my colleagues, regardless of party, to join me.