October 16, 2007 – Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) participated in a news conference steps from the U.S. Capitol today.  During the event Andrew Larochelle, the 17 year-old Eagle Scout, whose flag request led to the Architect of the Capitol (AoC) reversing his policy and deciding to allow “God” on flag certificates, was presented with a new flag certificate.  The reissued flag certificate from the office of the AoC included the uncensored inscription: “In honor of my grandfather Marcel Larochelle, for his dedication and love of God, Country, and family…” 

Congressman Franks stated, “Ronald Reagan once said that if we forget we are one nation under God, we will be one nation gone under.   I am so thankful for the noble efforts of those such as Andrew and his family, who have had the courage to ensure that that day has not yet come.  The entire foundation of our Republic was built on the premise of the Declaration of Independence— that we are all created¸ that we are equal, and that we have been endowed with unalienable rights by our Creator.  The core ideal of American government was the idea that man is given his rights by God.”

Congressman Franks joined the bipartisan efforts of over 160 Members of the House of Representatives in cosigning a letter authored by Congressman Michael R. Turner (OH-03), requesting House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to reverse the policy prohibiting “God” from being included on flag certificates.  The updated policy and reissued certificate came exactly one month after Andrew Larochelle’s flag was first flown over the U.S. Capitol – one of approximately 100,000 such requests to Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate each year.

“This was a fully coordinated bipartisan effort,” Congressman Turner added.  “Congressman Franks joined with over 160 Members of Congress to overturn a policy that threatened American traditions, religious freedoms and freedom of expression.  Instead, Congressman Franks joined me in presenting Andrew Larochelle with the flag certificate exactly as he wanted to give it to his grandfather.”