Congresswoman Madeleine Dean of Glenside and Congressman Rob Bresnahan, Jr. introduced this week the Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act.

The bill directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an official Green Star flag for the next of kin of veterans who die by suicide.

Named in honor of Sergeant Walter F. Hartnett IV, a 13-year US Army veteran (pictured above), the legislation “seeks to provide both recognition and solace to families who continue to carry the burdens of military service after their loved one’s passing,” the announcement said.

Hartnett IV also served as Commander of Conshohocken VFW Post 1074, Commander of Pennsylvania VFW District 16, as well as the Veterans Affairs representative for Congresswoman Dean.

“Walt Hartnett was a man devoted to service — to his country, his fellow veterans, his Conshohocken community, and, above all, his beautiful family. I was blessed to work alongside him, and our office was better because of his powerful voice for veterans in need. He led an expansive life, one that we lost too soon to suicide,” said Rep. Dean. “Every day, we lose an estimated 22 veterans to suicide — men and women who gave of themselves entirely for our freedom, and who bore wounds civilians cannot fathom. Yet, their families receive no federal recognition for such excruciating loss. The Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act would change that by creating a Green Star Service flag to raise awareness of the crisis of veteran suicide and provide resources for their loved ones. I thank my fellow Pennsylvanian, Congressman Rob Bresnahan, for co-leading this important and personal bipartisan bill.”

The full bill is below:

For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.