Boucher: The families of our veterans should not have to worry.

Hartford, CT – State Senator Toni Boucher (R-Wilton) is calling for the restoration of funding in the Governor’s proposed budget for the Connecticut Honor Guard. The program is not included in the Malloy budget. Instead the administration calls for the total elimination of state funding for the program which allows a full detail at the graveside of our beloved veterans.

“The families of deceased military should not have to worry that their loved ones are being slighted because of the administrations poor budgeting. To cut this program is disrespectful to our veterans. They deserve to be honored with a bugler, a rifle squad and the presentation of the flag. These are timeless tributes that honor their courage and sacrifice for their country. I’m deeply saddened by the administration’s decision and ask the legislature to restore this funding,” said Sen. Boucher.

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