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Flags of Honor

Even though Veteran's Day is this coming weekend, Small Town acknowledged the occasion with an event last Sunday--a simple ceremony of speeches, a small parade with color guard on horseback and the high school band--Daughter #2 played Taps for the event--and the visiting Ohio Flags of Honor Foundation.

The Ohio Flags of Honor Foundation travels around the state, filling town squares with American flags to honor the 550 Ohioans who are stationed in Afghanistan or Iraq. 170 of those soldiers have died in these wars, and their flags are set apart, creating quite a solemn display. Each flag is marked with the soldier's name, rank, and branch of service.

In 2004, Gino and Lisa Zimmer lost their son Nicholaus, a soldier in the US Army who was fighting in Iraq. As a way to cope with their grief, they formed a foundation that would fund a traveling custom motorcycle intended as a tribute to all the soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq. The motorcycle began traveling the country, but before long the Zimmers shifted gears and began traveling with flags, making more of an impact and raising awareness of the financial need soldiers often have after returning from service.

Regardless of what we all think about this war and whether or not the sacrifices our soldiers and their families make are justified, honoring the soldiers is as important as ever. This display helps everyone to participate in a small way at least, and my hope is that the section displaying the flags of soldiers who have died does not need more space when it next come to town.

Comments

dive said…
The Flags of Honor Foundation is a wonderful idea, Robyn.
I'm so glad daughter no2 got to play taps for them. You must be a proud mom.
7:41 AM
Cheltenhamdailyphoto said…
A really good concept. The photo of all those flags/soldiers is a great sight.
9:29 AM
Gina said…
I have never understood why some people cannot understand that supporting the act of war and supporting the soldiers are two entrirely different things.

I support the soldiers and their families, always.
11:51 AM
Neponset River Bridge Dig said…
Amen Scout!!!

The troops need our support and prayers more than ever

thanks for this tribute
8:54 PM
Alifan said…
Hi Scout, just catching up... nice pic...

It is the 11th day of this month that we hope everyone will remember all those who have fought and who lost their lives in the wars, that are still going on....

Afraid as much as I used to love the Church service, since I lost John have not been able to attend the service,as I usually break down even watching on the TV. John was Wings Appeal Officer for our RAFA branch, and he arranged for all the young cadets to line the church yard, and the service was wonderful to see, all the banners...one day I may be able to attend again, but with the rest of our country will pray that those that are left behind in these terrible wars, will know we are thinking of them, I wear my poppy with pride....
3:14 AM
peahen said…
Well done to your daughter, Scout. I feel it's a real honour and privilege to play it. I'm sure you were proud.
3:57 PM
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