Legislators Pledge to Restore Cuts Proposed for CT Honor Guard

Greater Bristol legislators are questioning a section of the governor’s proposed budget which calls for the total elimination of state funding for the Connecticut Honor Guard.

State funds are currently used to support military funeral honors.  Those honors include the playing of “Taps” and rifle teams which fire graveside salutes. 

 “We should not eliminate state funding for final honors for our vets,” said Sen. Henri Martin (R-Bristol), who serves as ranking member of the legislature’s Veterans’ Affairs Committee.  “We will be raising awareness of this ill-advised policy change among Republicans and Democrats in the Connecticut General Assembly.  We hope we can get this money restored.  We certainly will try our best on behalf of vets and their families.”

“I feel very strongly that our government should respect and support the veterans who have fought on behalf of our country,” said Rep. Whit Betts (R-Bristol).  “I oppose the Governor’s proposal to eliminate funding for military honors and I absolutely will fight to have the state continue funding this vital program.”

“For the men and women who have served their country with dignity and honor, who have put their life on the line to defend our freedom, the very least we can do to show our gratitude is to continue to fund this program,” said Rep. Cara Pavalock (R-Bristol).  “It is unconscionable to even suggest that this program be considered for a budget cut, much less say to any veteran’s family that in death, the bravery of their loved one would not receive final honors, honors of which they are deserving.”

The Connecticut Honor Guard attends funerals in Connecticut for:

• Any deceased person who has served in any of the armed forces of the United States during times of war.
• Any deceased person who has served in the National Guard for more than 20 years.
• Any deceased who has died while a member of the National Guard.