BRATTLEBORO — With the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, Brattleboro's American Legion Post 5 is using the month of May for a series of community projects centered on the American flag and on recognizing the veterans who gave their lives in service to our country.
In a news release, John Hagen, the post commander, explained that the idea emerged from discussions of the American Legion's centennial anniversary.
“Our members were looking for ways that we could highlight the 100 years of service by the American Legion,” Hagen said. “We also wanted to connect this anniversary to our enduring missions of serving veterans and promoting respect for our national colors.”
The result of these discussions is a set of projects for which the Legion is seeking community participation.
“We are asking all businesses and residents to examine their American flags,” Hagen explained.
If a flag has frayed edges, permanent stains, holes or tears beyond repair, or if the colors have faded, owners should bring it to Post 5 at 32 Linden Street for appropriate disposal.
The American Legion sells new flags, and in support of this initiative, both Brown & Roberts Ace Hardware and Fireside True Value Hardware will sell flags at a discount during the month of May. Hagen says the goal is to have bright, clean flags hanging all over town by Memorial Day.
Hagen said the Legion will place 500 American flags on the front lawn of the Brattleboro Municipal Center for Memorial Day weekend. Each flag recognizes a service member who gave their life in the line of duty.
Anyone wishing to recognize a deceased service member may sponsor a flag by visiting or writing to Post 5 and providing the name, military branch, and conflict. There is a $5 charge for sponsoring a flag, which will go to the Post's veterans emergency assistance fund.
On Memorial Day, May 27, the Legion Post will join the VFW Post and the Marine Corps League in conducting a series of memorial ceremonies at the cemeteries and memorial bridges across Brattleboro. Memorial Day activities will culminate with a final ceremony on the Common at 11 a.m. joined by the American Legion Band.
Major General Greg Knight, the Adjutant General for the Vermont National Guard, will join the ceremony as the guest speaker. The ceremony will be followed by a complimentary lunch at Post 5 that is open to the public.