Rep. Brian Mast Proposes Final Honors Act to Allow Fallen Service Members to Lie in State at U.S. Capitol
WASHINGTON — Rep. Brian Mast has introduced the Final Honors Act, legislation that would permit U.S. service members killed in action to lie in state beneath the dome of the U.S. Capitol, officials said. The bill seeks to provide a formal opportunity for the nation to pay tribute to fallen military personnel, allowing their families to choose this honor.
The tradition of lying in state at the Capitol dates back to 1852, when Henry Clay, a former speaker of the House and secretary of State, was the first to receive the recognition. Since then, only 46 individuals have lain in state or honor, including former presidents, civil rights activist Rosa Parks, and Capitol police officers killed in the line of duty.
Mast, a military veteran, emphasized the sacrifice of service members who have died in combat, noting that they willingly undertook dangerous duties to protect the Constitution and the country. He said the legislation would ensure that those killed in action receive the reverence he believes they deserve.
The Final Honors Act would allow families of fallen service members to decide whether to have their loved ones’ flag-draped caskets lie in state at the Capitol. Mast expressed hope that the first such honor under the act would be extended to Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, one of two National Guard members recently shot in Washington, D.C.
Mast described the solemnity of military funerals, recalling the gun salutes, taps, and flag folding, and said that while the nation can never fully repay the debt owed to fallen heroes, this act would be a meaningful way to show gratitude. He also highlighted the importance of the public being able to pay final respects to those who embodied the nation’s highest values.
The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about how best to honor military service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The legislation would formalize a practice that has historically been reserved for a select few, extending it to all service members killed in action.
The Final Honors Act is currently under consideration in Congress, with supporters advocating for its passage as a fitting tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes.
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