STATEHOUSE (March 19, 2013) – An expanded portion of Indiana’s historic battle flag collection is closer to being preserved thanks to legislation approved by the House of Representatives 97-0 today. Senate Bill 323, authored by State Sens. Jim Merritt (R-Indianapolis) and Allen Paul (R-Richmond), establishes a fund to restore and preserve Indiana’s collection of battle flags.

“Of all the bills we are working on this session, this one will hold the greatest meaning for our state’s history, especially for younger generations throughout the coming years,” Paul said. “Battle flags once were an important tool for regiments, allowing officers to communicate instructions while in the field. We must preserve these flags, as they represent the sacrifice of those who fought to protect our country.”

The Indiana War Memorial Commission’s collection has grown to more than 400 battle flags, with historic pieces ranging from the Mexican-American War to the Persian Gulf War.

“Age and water damage have caused considerable harm to Indiana’s battle flag collection, which is one of the largest in the country,” Merritt said. “These flags are currently hidden away for protection in basement vaults, but if we preserve them, they can be displayed for people to appreciate. It would be a shame not to be able to share these pieces of Indiana history with future generations of Hoosiers.”

SB 323 will now head to the governor’s desk for final consideration.

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