Bill to Allow POW / MIA Flag at Federal Sites Gains

Federal legislation inspired by a Lomita city councilman’s efforts to have the POW / MIA flag that honors prisoners of war and those missing in action flown at federal buildings on six national holidays has won approval in the House and Senate and awaits final action in Congress.

Introduced by Rep. Jane Harman (D-Rolling Hills) in January, the legislation has become part of a defense authorization bill that has been passed in separate forms by the House and Senate. Several provisions, however, must be ironed out before the bill is sent to President Clinton.

The legislation was introduced after Lomita Councilman Dave Albert was denied a request to fly the black and white flag over the city’s post office because the U.S. Postal Service allows only the American flag to be flown--a policy that requires an act of Congress to be changed.

The legislation has garnered the support of several cities nationwide. Last week, the county Board of Supervisors passed a resolution to fly the flag at all county facilities the day before and on the six holidays: Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day and National POW / MIA Recognition Day.