Gadsden flag denied over State Capitol

Hartford, Connecticut (WTNH) - A Connecticut Marine's request to have the Gadsden flag fly over the State Capitol has been denied.

Patrick Rubino -- a former corporal in the Marine Corps -- was joined by members of his family at the sState Capitol Tuesday morning. He formally requested that the Gadsden flag be flown this Memorial Day to honor Marines who have fought and died in service.

The flag, which has the phrase "Don't Tread On Me" inscribed on it, was used by troops during the American Revolution.

It's the same flag the Tea Party has adopted.

Rubino says his request has nothing to do with the Tea Party.

"I don't know much about that. I'm not connected to that,” said Rabino. “I just know it's a flag we flew in Afghanistan and in Iraq over our bases. And I'd just like to see it flown here at the Capitol.”

Among the reasons why he was denied, Rubino says he was told the flag is not the official banner of the Marine Corps.