Area residents are encouraged to be part of Emporia’s Flag Day activities this week.
The American Legion Post 5 will have a public retirement ceremony beginning at 6:30 pm Wednesday. Post Commander Clay Childs says the Legion is proud to offer this educational event to the area, and the retirement ceremony is a solemn event — although slightly different than others.
Childs also says Emporia’s status as the founding city of Veterans Day has elevated the local knowledge of flag etiquette — saying, “we do better than most.”
Residents are encouraged to bring their worn flags to be retired and to buy a new American flag from the American Legion.
Besides the retirement ceremony, the post will also have a special presentation of Vietnam Veterans medallions beginning at 5 pm. Residents attending the ceremonies at the Legion are asked to bring their own lawn chairs. With high temperatures approaching 90 degrees, attendees are also asked to bring hats and sunscreen.
In addition, the Emporia Lions Club will honor Flag Day by waving flags on the Road S bridge over Interstate 35. Club member Gary Post was on KVOE’s Morning Show on Wednesday encouraged residents to join club members for the event.
Hours will be 3-6 pm. It’s the fourth year for this gathering for the club.
Flag Day honors the federal government’s adoption of the first official American flag on June 14, 1777.
