Respect for the American Flag is a given in our family.  At least it is now.  My younger years were more about me than the world around me or my country. 

I "came of age" in  the late 60's,  graduated from high school, got drafted into the Army ,and served a tour of duty in Vietnam.    Although I honorably served my country, I will admit that I was more interested in staying alive than the political arguments in support or opposition to that war.   I did my time, accomplished the mission I was assigned, and came home in one piece.  Many of friends were not so blessed and I thank God each day for His grace and mercy to me.

Today our country's flag again flys over young troops involved in combat missions thousands of miles from home.  And now just like in my time, their burden is compounded by a lack of support back home for the war. 

Flag Day is a chance for you and me to show our support for the "standard" and those who serve to preserve the freedoms for which it stands.  So forget your political views for one day.  Stand to your feet when the Stars and Stripes pass by.  Remove your hat, salute or place your hand on your heart, and honor the symbol of our country.  Demonstate, by your actions, what I believe is in most American's hearts - a love for God, our country, and the American way of life.

My wife and I have adopted Altoona as our hometown for parades and special patriotic ocassions.  We attended the June 14, 2007, Flag Day event at the Heritage Plaza in downtown Altoona.  It was a wonderful event and we send a special thank you to all who made it so.  If you missed this event, mark your calendar for next year and just run the videos to see some of what we saw. 

Introduction  - Posting of the Colors

Master of Ceremonies - Jim Gregory, Vice-President of Customer Relations Management, Omega Bank

Guest Speaker

Colonel Terry L. Wagner, Retired U.S. Army - Blair County Commissioner

 Closing

Finally after the event was coming to a close, I took a moment to speak with John Kazmaier.  John is one of those hometown boys who gets involved, and I know he was behind the Gospel Hill Flag Project from the beginning.  I was reluctant to include this video becasue of the background sounds, but a patriotic song was being played and it seemed appropriate for John's testimony.   Here is what he said:

The Gospel Hill Flag was down for flag pole repairs, but this story link shows Old Glory in all her majesty. http://storytrax.com/node/739

For more information on the Community Foundation or to find out how to make a contribution in support of the The Gospel Hill Flag Project , call Executive Director, Jodi Cessna - 944-6102

Email this story and video to a friend and share your love for the Flag!