While the nation sets aside June 14 to celebrate Flag Day, a local group of U.S. Marine Corps veterans wants to honor local residents and business owners who respect Old Glory every day of the year.
The Marine Forever Detachment No. 1440 has established the American Patriot Award to do just that.
The group, which meets in Land O’ Lakes, recognizes that it takes time and care to properly maintain the flag, and it already has bestowed awards to selected individuals and business owners in northern Hillsborough County and Central Pasco County.
The award goes to the business or resident/homeowner displaying the American Flag in new or like-new condition and must be visible, day or night.
So far, more than 100 awards have been presented, said L. David Kirk, the detachment’s commandant.
“We’re getting such reception from this, you won’t believe it,” Kirk said.
He said he received a call from an Army veteran in Land O’ Lakes who said the award “lifted his spirits” and that a widow of a veteran who lives in Oakstead broke into tears when she received the award.
“The businesses like it, too. They’ve been flying a flag all along, religiously,” Kirk said. They appreciate the recognition.
To nominate your business or residence for an award, send your request to .
To find out more about the group, call L. David Kirk at (813) 956-2469.
To see a list of the recipients, visit Marine4Ever.com, or check the organization’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/MarineForeverDetachment1440MarineCorpsLeague.
NOTE:
Flag day was established officially by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30, 1916, according to the website USFlag.org.
Although Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson’s proclamation, it wasn’t until Aug. 3, 1949 that President Harry S. Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14 as National Flag Day.
Published June 14, 2017
