Sacramento, CA. - Senate Bill 443, authored by Sen. Strickland (R-Simi Valley) passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously.

“The passing of this bill through committee is a fitting Memorial Day tribute to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” Sen. Strickland said. “By supporting this monument my colleagues and I are showing our appreciation for soldiers from all branches of the military.”

“We are now one step closer to getting this memorial built and allowing Orcutt to fly the flag as a demonstration of patriotism and freedom,” Sen. Strickland added. “With the Holiday on Monday it allows us to properly reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day and what this monument really stands for: a tribute to the veterans who were proud to wear the uniform and who fought to defend our Nation’s freedom.”

“The flag is the most patriotic symbol our country shares and to fly it proudly is the most patriotic act one can demonstrate. When future generations see it they will know the sacrifices these brave men and women made.”

SB 443 would authorize the Old Town Orcutt Revitalization Association (OTORA) to plan, construct, and maintain a veterans’ memorial in a park-and-ride lot located in Orcutt, California. The memorial will contain a 60-foot American flag surrounded by five pillars, representing each branch of the U.S. military. No state money will be used to build or maintain the memorial.

Sen. Strickland is available to the media for an interview or comments.

Tony Strickland represents California Senate District 19, which includes portions of Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.