Rep. Steven Palazzo (MS-4) and Rep. Garret Graves (LA-6)released the following joint statement following the Army’s announcement to reverse an earlier decision denying burial at Arlington for Staff Sergeant Thomas Florich:
Palazzo, a member of the Mississippi National Guard, praised the Army's reversal: “There should be no discrimination between a Guardsman or active service member who pays the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. I am grateful that the U.S. Army reconsidered the circumstances surrounding Staff Sergeant Florich’s sacrifice, and will now allow for him to be laid to rest in the hallowed grounds at Arlington."
Congressman Graves added to Palazzo's thoughts stating: “It’s great when the government does the right thing – and today it did. We appreciate Army Secretary McHugh taking a fresh look at the circumstances surrounding this hero and his family. Staff Sgt. Florich and his family will now receive the honor they deserve. We wish Sgt. Florich’s wife Meghan the best in the upcoming birth of their baby, and the entire family will remain in our prayers.”
SSGT Thomas Florich was killed during a training accident on March 11, 2015 along with ten other service members. Current policy prohibits burial at Arlington National Cemetery for national guardsmen unless serving on active duty; however, the Secretary of the Army has the authority to provide a waiver to the policy. Friday the Army announced such a waiver would be granted to SSGT Florich.
