YOUTH SHOW RESPECT FOR FLAG

Kathleen Tomlin

April 24, 2023

 

The VFW Auxiliary has been busy lately promoting patriotism.  We visited the Las Animas Elementary School Kindergarten classes on April 10th and had the kids practice saying the Pledge of Allegiance.  The kids did a FANTASTIC job – it was apparent that their teachers and parents have been helping them.  They were rewarded with a little flag to practice with their parents and a small Pledge of Allegiance card.  Four VFW Auxiliary members helped teach – Pat Gonzales; Pam Cortez; Jessica Tomlin and Kathleen Tomlin.  On May 14th, the Auxiliary and Post arranged a “Flag Retirement Ceremony” with the Aerolab Class at the Nazarene Church parking lot.  The ceremony included posting the colors, saying the Pledge of Allegiance; practice with folding flags; and learning why the flag is folded 13 times and what each fold represents.  22 youth volunteers presented the stripes and the blue field from a flag that had been prepared for the ceremony; and then respectfully burned approximately 50 flags, with the help of volunteers and Steve Bourne manning the fire.  Barb Martin, VFW Americanism Chairperson and narrator said about the retired flag, “Now I am just a memory.  If there is a tear in your eye or a lump in your throat; if you felt a shiver in your spine as you watched me burn, never fear, as I will always be there when you need me.  My colors will be fresh and bright, and my edges will be ragged no more.  I will wave at you and remember the love and respect that you have shown me here today.  Look up!  For I AM YOUR FLAG.”  All the adults attending were impressed with the respect the youth demonstrated during this ceremony.  The Auxiliary thanks all those that attended; the Post and Auxiliary members who helped; Steve Bourne for his dedication; and the Fire Department for taking the time to put the fire out.  God bless our veterans and GOD BLESS AMERICA!