Legion members take offense at flag theft
Annual flag disposal ceremony planned for FridayBy Aaron Follett – Daily Freeman-Journal Intern
The Webster City American Legion is steamed over the thefts of American flags at Graceland Cemetery during the Memorial Day weekend.
The thefts involved taking one of the flags that are put up during Memorial Day in Graceland Cemetery and replacing them with a flag in poor condition. The first theft occurred in 2008 and involved the flag that belonged to Jerry Faulkner, 65, and his father Tom Faulkner, deceased. The flag was replaced with a damaged flag that Jerry had destroyed.
"It's a disgrace." Jerry said.
The second theft occurred last month and involved the flag of J. Adams, deceased. Again the flag was replaced with a damaged one. The damaged flag is currently in the possession of the Legion.
Harold Martin, chairman of the Avenue of Flags, was dismayed over the thefts and urges anyone with information relating to the thefts to contact the American Legion Post 191 (515) 832-2087 and the Webster City police department (515) 832-9166.
Martin has said that if anyone wishes to replace his or her damaged flag or to obtain a new one to contact the legion.
Flag Day service planned
On a related note, a ceremony typically held on Flag Day has been moved a few days earlier. The flag destroying ceremony that normally takes place on Flag Day, June 14, will be moved to Friday at 5 pm.
The ceremony will take place behind "The Washboard" at 725 Second St. The ceremony will consist of a simple, but respectful service that will include five individuals from the American Legion, including Commander Mike Whipple.
The flags that need to be destroyed will be draped over a wire and soaked in fuel oil or Kerosene. The five American Legion members will perform the ceremony of asking if the flags have been inspected and are still serviceable before burning them.
The Webster City Fire Department will be present at the ceremony for emergency services.
The Legion has asked that if anyone wishes to have a damaged flag destroyed in the service to turn the flag over to the American Legion Post 191 at 726 Second Street or Russ' Barber Shop at 728 Second St,, next door to the Legion, anytime after 4 p.m. most business days.
