Gerry Riley, right, adjutant for American Legion Post 47 in Houlton, welcomes those in attendance for the post’s first “Flag Day Recognition Ceremony” on Friday, June 14. The post honored six individuals and six businesses for their displays of the American Flag. (Joseph Cyr)

 

American Legion Post 47 celebrates Flag Day

Houlton, ME

Joseph Cyr • June 14, 2019

HOULTON, Maine — There are many myths and misconceptions when it comes to the proper etiquette for displaying the American flag.
So on Flag Day, Friday, June 14, American Legion Post 47 in Houlton felt it was fitting for their group to recognize those businesses and individuals who properly display the flag during a special breakfast and ceremony.
Post Adjutant Gerry Riley said the Legion felt it was important to recognize those businesses and individuals who go above and beyond with their displays of the American flag.
“Often when we get together here at the Legion, members have stated ‘Wow, this person has a nice flag display,' or 'That business really did a nice job with their flag,’” Riley said. “We decided it was time for us to tell people we appreciate what they are doing.”
Marking the first year the Legion has lauded businesses and individuals for their flag displays, Riley said he hopes it will be something that continues each year.
A committee was formed to review and photograph the displays, which resulted in a group of more than 20 potential honorees. That group was narrowed down to six businesses and six individuals who were recognized during the ceremony.
Honored during the meeting were residents Carl Lord, Larry and Judy Suitter, Galen and Barbara Hogan, Barbara Foster, Matt and Cheryl Quint and Dana and Mary Williamson.
Businesses were F.A. Peabody Company, Smith and Wesson, McDonalds, Houlton Water Company, Dunn Funeral Home and J. McLaughlin Construction.
Chaplin Dean Mitchell opened and closed the ceremony in prayer and also sang the national anthem during the breakfast.
This article originally appeared in the Houlton Pioneer Times newspaper and was reprinted with permission from thecounty.me website.


Steve Fitzpatrick, left, of F.A. Peabody Company, accepts a certificate from Dan Blake, finance officer for American Legion Post 47 in Houlton, for the company’s flag etiquette. (Joseph Cyr)
« Previous story
Next story »