U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins was in Carencro on Monday to participate in several Memorial Day ceremonies taking place across Acadiana.
Higgins spoke to a group of veterans and local residents at Walters Funeral home.
Owner Gene Walters, a U.S. Army Veteran and a three-time Purple Heart recipient, invited Higgins and others to honor those who died serving their country.
“I’m not sure if I’ve ever been so humbled,” Higgins said. “I think about the heroes amongst us, like Mr. Walters, a multiple recipient of the purple heart, the men and women who have come before us and allowed us to gather here today in peace and security.”
Higgins also spoke about the American flag and what it represents to him. Just outside, a giant American flag, erected more than three stories in the air and attached to an aerial fire truck, graced the entrance of the funeral home. The Lafayette Fire Department’s Honor Guard displays the flag during all memorial ceremonies for service men and women and other public and safety officials.
“It is intended as a memorial for veterans, fire fighters, and to honor those who have sacrificed for their country,” said Captain Marlene Vidrine, Honor Guard commander. “It doesn’t seem like a lot but people remember it. It does bring a lot of emotion.”
Higgins, also a veteran, said he took time away from politics in Washington, D.C., because the day is a somber holiday. He said attending such ceremonies was part of his service to the nation.
“I feel reverence in Washington, D.C. I feel reverence for the history of our country and the buildings that I serve in,” he said. “They are filled with the message of patriotic service…Our bond, our brotherhood, is much stronger than that which might divide us. And this is a good weekend to reflect on that”
The congressman also reflected on the successes he said have been made during his tenure, including helping to restore power to the 50 sovereign states, moving towards a balanced budget, strengthening the military and helping to re-build the nation’s borders.
Asked if there were any areas he would change, Higgins mentioned the No. 1 issue many Americans also say is plaguing politics today.
“I’ve met many powerful and wise patriots across the aisle,” he said. “And yet, there seems to be orders that bipartisanship is just not allowed. And I would change that if I could.”
