(Juneau) - The House of Representatives introduced a resolution today to establish an Alaska Medal of Honor. The resolution was introduced by Rules by request of Speaker John Harris (R-Valdez).

House Concurrent Resolution 48 will establish an Alaska Medal of Honor to honor Alaskans or those stationed in Alaska at the time of their deployment who gave their lives in defense of our country.

"Men and women who serve our country in the armed services are extremely important to the security of our nation. Those who fall in the line of duty are heroes and it is an honor and pleasure for me to support the state's efforts to give back to the families. The medal will be a small token of appreciation to show respect for the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice," said Speaker Harris.

The resolution calls for the Joint Armed Services Committee to design the medal and prepare legislation to be introduced next session.

"This is the first time in the history of Alaska that we have had so many of our reserves fighting on war fronts in full-term service. This is our opportunity to step up and recognize these men and women when their final sacrifice is made," said Representative John Coghill (R-North Pole), Co-Chair of the Joint Armed Services Committee.

Chair of House Special Committee on Military and Veterans' Affairs, Bob Lynn (R-Anchorage) said, "The title says it all. It is for service above and beyond the exceptional."

HCR 48 passed the House by a unanimous vote.

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