Contributed commentary by Michael Hartline:
Attention veterans: I have been driving down Trenton Road to get to my home for two years now. I have noticed a flag at the house next door to the 180 Church that has been displaying a well-torn and tattered American flag.
Well, today I stopped and met with the elderly gentleman and asked him if he was a veteran. He said yes sir. I asked his permission to replace his old and tattered U.S. flag. He said he has wanted to change it for years, but his declining health would not allow him to do it. I told him that as a proud U.S. veteran that I would be pleased to replace it for him with his permission. He had tears as he said, “I want to thank you, soldier.” I told him it was my honor, and I would continue to watch his Old Glory shine on his flagpole and will retire his old flag with the VSO or VFW so that it will be properly retired.
Please, soldiers check on your neighbors. Some have served for us as we have for them, and it really is the small things in life that make the difference.
Michael Hartline