Juniors helping with the Flag Day Program include (l-r) Carlee Smith, Emma Bauer, McKenna Lenz, helper, Cayden Savage, and Kenzie Bartel. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

GLADBROOK – The Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary and Jr. Auxiliary hosted a Community Flag Day Program at Westbrook Acres on June 17. Jr. McKenna Lenz passed out little American flags and Cayden Savage handed out Flag Day word search sheets. Sue Koster, pianist, played several patriotic hymns before the program began.

Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary President Jeanne Paustian welcomed everyone to the Flag Day program. The colors were advanced by Juniors Kenzie Bartel and Carlee Smith followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the “Star-Spangled Banner” led by Linda Goos.

President Jeanne stated, “The United States flag is the most recognized flag in the world. While worldwide, people identify it more than any other flag, only Americans truly understand the convictions and beliefs that ‘Old Glory’ represents. Literally, the red and white stripes stand for the original 13 colonies who fought to gain their independence from Britain. The blue canton with its 50 stars represents our current 50 states. Our flag has gone through 26 changes since its original design of 1777. Our current flag was created in 1960 and is the longest-used variation.”

“However, it is the symbolism behind the United States flag that truly gives meaning to Americans. That is what can bring a lump to your throat or tears to your eyes. The flag reminds us of the freedoms we have in this country. The flag appears in churches to indicate our freedom of religion. It symbolizes our freedom of speech, freedom to assemble, and freedom of the press. We should all be proud to stand and salute ‘Old Glory.'”

Everyone enjoyed waving their little flags and singing “It’s a Grand Ole Flag” and “America the Beautiful.” Jr. Emma Bauer presented a new American flag to Westbrook’s Activity Director Kaya Thompson.

Emma Bauer, center, presents the U.S. flag to Westbrook Acres Activity Director Kaya Thompson (left). Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary President Jeanne Paustian is also pictured. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

After the retirement of the flags, everyone joined hands and sang “God Bless America.” Everyone enjoyed bars and homemade ice cream served by the Westbrook staff.