OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Operation Democracy and Flags for Freedom

Floor Speech

Date: April 14, 2026
Location: Washington, DC

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Operation Democracy and their Flags for Freedom program.

In my district, the hamlet of Locust Valley proudly founded Operation Democracy's sister city program in 1947, partnering with the first town, Normandy, France, liberated on D-day.

Now, Oyster Bay-East Norwich and Cold Spring Harbor, also in my district, participate in the Flags for Freedom program, as well.

Operation Democracy was founded in the wake of World War II as a humanitarian effort to rebuild war-torn cities across the globe. Since then, it has connected more than 500 communities with partner communities throughout the world, fostering diplomacy, peace, and mutual understanding.

Their Flags for Freedom program builds powerful bridges between generations. Through American Legion posts, local veterans present American flags to graduating high school seniors.

Nearly 10,000 flags have already been presented as living lessons of service, sacrifice, and citizenship.

I encourage every congressional district across the country to enter into the Flags for Freedom program. It is a simple, nonpartisan tribute to our veterans and our Nation's flag, and it is rooted in both history and gratitude.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT


Source
arrow_upward