Remembering back to 9-11, our entire nation was festooned with our country’s flag. One could see it hanging from almost every building, draped around porches, hanging from auto windows, in the hands of children, and on any and all flag poles.

Driving around Lehigh Acres on June 14th, which is our official Flag Day, there were so few flags flying that it was a sad sight indeed. In this day and age, the citizens of the United States must come together and remember that our flag is a symbol of all we stand for and should be honored. We need to show the world that in spite of our difficulties, we are still the United States of America.

At the VFW Post 4174 in Lehigh Acres, we carry flags for purchasing. It has been recommended that the cotton flags be replaced with nylon ones, as the weather not only fades the colors, gales of wind will tear it to shreds. If this happens, we have a gaily painted mailbox outside our front door for the disposal of a flag that has been frayed from the weather or discolored from the rays of the sun.

When the box is full, the designated flags are gathered for a ceremonial event to dispose of them honorably. Many times, a Boy Scout Troop is invited to partake in this solemn ritual and they learn respect for the flag and its traditions.

Not only can you purchase a flag from our post, there is a website to place an order. It is VFWSTORE.ORG. and one doesn’t have to be a member of the VFW to buy a flag. There are different sizes which can be ordered. It is also important to remember a flag is furnished at Celebration of Life ceremonies to honor the memory of a Veteran’s military service.

During any legal holiday, we should be proud to fly our flag in accordance with the flag etiquette. If someone is unsure of the proper way to do so, visiting us at 25 S. Homestead Road or calling at 239-369-5100 will get the answers needed. Our Veterans continually respect and honor the flag under which they had so proudly served and would be happy to assist anyone in their flag endeavors.

If you’re interested, stop in or call us. You’ll be glad you did!