Historic Legislation Introduced to Officially Recognize the Red Star Service Banner

Today marks a milestone in national recognition for families affected by military and veteran suicide. On March 5, 2026, members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced H.R. 7815, a bill to amend Title 36 of the United States Code to establish the Red Star Service Banner as an officially recognized national service banner.

The Red Star Service Banner, created by the Red Star Foundation to honor and remember service members and veterans who died by suicide. Represents a powerful symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the ongoing impact of military service on families. This banner joins the tradition of official service banners that recognize military service and loss, extending that tradition to include the profound loss felt by those whose loved ones died by suicide.

What the Bill Does

H.R. 7815 would:

• Amend Title 36 of the U.S. Code, the section of federal law that designates and governs official national emblems, patriotic holidays, and service banners.

• Officially establish the Red Star Service Banner as a nationally recognized emblem, giving statutory acknowledgment to its meaning and importance.

• Provide a federal reference for the banner that enables broader awareness, respect, and use in ceremonies, institutions, and commemorations across the country.

The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of members of Congress, led by Representative Jack Bergman of Michigan, with support from several co-sponsors on both sides of the aisle. Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL), Representative Mike Bost (R-IL), Representative J. Luis Correa (D-CA), Representative Neal P. Dunn (R-FL), and Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL). The measure, H.R. 7815, was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration as it begins its journey through Congress.

Why This Matters

For too long, families who have lost a loved one to military suicide have lacked formal recognition from the federal government for their sacrifice. While service flags have long honored those serving in uniform and those who made the ultimate sacrifice in combat, there has not been an official symbol that acknowledges the unique and deeply personal loss of suicide within the military and veteran community.

The Red Star Service Banner fills that void. Giving millions of families, advocates, and communities a respectful and enduring symbol that acknowledges their grief, honors their loved ones, and helps sustain awareness and conversation around veteran suicide and prevention.

A Shared Step Forward

The introduction of H.R. 7815 represents more than legislative progress, it is a recognition that the grief and sacrifice experienced by these families are real, national experiences worthy of acknowledgment and respect at the highest levels.

The Red Star Foundation applauds the members of Congress who stood up to champion this effort and looks forward to continuing to work with advocates, policymakers, and communities nationwide to see this legislation enacted into law.

Stay tuned to the Foundation’s website and social channels for updates as H.R. 7815 advances through the legislative process.