101 flags retired at Legion Post 52 ceremony
American Legions Vice Commander Morris McFarland at the flag retirement ceremony in Plains last week. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
From left, American Legion members Bill Beck, Morris McFarland, Charlotte Beaudry and Ken Matthiesen. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
The local American Legion's oldest member Al Aschenbrener. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
From left, American Legion Post Commander Ken Matthiesen, retired Army Major Charlotte Beaudry and Vice Post Commander Morris McFarland. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
Veterans from Sanders County assembled under the threat of rain on Flag Day to honor America’s symbol of freedom.
American Legion Post 52 veterans showed the ultimate respect for the U.S. flag by preforming a solemn ceremony retiring 101 flags consisting of 95 American flags, two Montana state flags, two POW flags, one Marine Corps flag and one Oregon state flag. Twenty-four veterans assembled to show their respect at the Thompson Falls Elks Lodge this year.
Post Commander Ken Matthiesen recited the long-standing ceremony, retiring flags that have served their useful lives in Sanders County. Throughout the year, the American Legion collects flags for the Flag Day retirement ceremony.
Community members can donate torn and tattered flags to the American Legion and the VFW in Plains.
American Legion Post 52 is part of a national organization that contributes to many local community programs throughout Sanders County.
