5-26-08 A flag flies at half-staff during the Memorial Day Ceremony at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetary Monday in Elwood. photo by Jean Lachat/Sun-Times
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Different Year, Same Problem

It’s funny the things that my husband does remember. Today he said “Are you going to call the flag guy about tommorrow?”

“Yes.”

“Do you think he will do it right?”

“No.”

“Then why do you bother?”

“Because it still bothers me.”

There is a specific protocol that deals with how the flag is presented on Memorial Day. My grandfather taught me about it. He passed away when I was seven and I still remember how important this was to him. I think he actually had me memorize it.

“At sunrise on Memorial Day the flag is swiftly raised to full staff. Then the flag is slowly dropped to half staff. This recognizes and honors all the soldiers who have given their life in battle. It remains at half staff in their honor until noon.

At noon the flag is raised to full staff to all those soldiers who have served and are currently serving. Just because you didn’t die in battle, does not mean that your life was not forever changed by serving in the military. All are honored.”

I can say it without even thinking. The cemetary and flag are right across the way. Tommorrow I will see it go up at sunrise and I will cry when it stays full staff. As I do every year.

  • Question of

    Do your community get it right?

    • Yes
    • No
  • Question of

    Are traditions important?

    • Yes
    • No

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Written by Ghostwriter

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