St. Sen. Sue Rezin says Illinois is now on its way to recognizing the Honor and Remember Flag as the official state symbol to remember those who lost their lives during Memorial Day. A bill designate the Honor and Remember Flag as the official State symbol of concern for the commitment to honoring and remembering the lives of all members of the United States. The Morris Republican says the flag’s tradition started after George “Tony” Lutz II was killed in Iraq by a sniper in 2005. After his death, his father George visited other families with relatives that died in Iraq which helped him because it brought a sense of commonality. She says the flag ensures that no Gold Star families were not in vain and that they won’t be forgotten.

The bill passes both Illinois Chambers and now heads to Gov. Pritzker’s desk. You can learn more about the flag on the Honor and Rememberce Flag website.