Rep. Tom Latham of Iowa won unanimous approval yesterday for his resolution to make this flag ? created by Bill Kendall of Jefferson to honor Darrell Lindsey, another Jefferson native who sacrificed his life in a World War II flying mission to save the life of his crew ? the flag presented to recipients of the U.S. military's highest honor.
"It's appropriate for Congress to respond to this grassroots initiative to further honor the Americans who serve our military, our country and the cause of freedom with the greatest personal bravery and sacrifice," Grassley said. "Iowa has a proud history of leading the effort to recognize our war heroes, and Bill Kendall is carrying on that fine tradition with his flag."
Latham said Monday that since the Civil War, 3,459 medals of honor have been awarded for 3,453 separate acts of heroism performed by 3,439 individuals. Nine of those individuals are unknown. Today there are 143 living recipients of the Medal of Honor. This medal was first conceived by Sen. James Grimes of Iowa in 1861.