Culberson Language Urges Return of Alamo Flag to United States

I included language in the FY2018 State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs appropriations bill to urge the Secretary of State to negotiate with Mexico for the return of the only flag known to have flown at the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, the New Orleans Greys flag.

This piece of Texas history is currently being held in Mexico City, and I’d like to see it returned to its rightful place in Texas. Texas is a state with a rich history of bravery and triumph, and this flag represents part of our heritage. The New Orleans Greys were two companies of volunteers from the United States that fought on behalf of Texas’ independence, and we should always remember their courage and sacrifice.

As a history enthusiast, I want to preserve artifacts and relics to help the next generation of young Texans learn about the state’s incredible history. My language in the bill urges the Secretary of State to negotiate with Mexico to return this Texas treasure.

The New Orleans Greys flag is kept at the Museo Nacional de Historia in Mexico City. Mexican General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna captured the 4-by-3 foot silk flag after the Battle of Alamo, and sent it to Mexico where it has remained for the last 181 years.

The State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs funding bill was approved by the House Appropriations Committee by voice vote.