caring and support On Friday, January 9, seventeen area Marines left from Chili to travel to Camp LeJeune, N.C. Where they will go after that is uncertain. For those left at home, this can be a trying time. It can also be a time to take part in a custom that began during World War I. During that war, mothers of young soldiers hand-stitched red, white and blue flags to hang in their windows as a sign that a loved one had gone to fight in the war. The flag had a white background, red border and a blue star. Each flag could hold up to six stars. If a loved one lost his life in battle, the mother would honor her son by sewing a gold star over one of the blue stars. Later, wives and families of soldiers also hung flags in their windows. During subsequent wars - World War II, the Korean War and Desert Storm - the flags were also used. After 9/11 and in this war on terrorism, it was understood that not only military men and women risk their lives for our safety, but also firefighters and policemen. The flags for those groups have the white flag and red border and show either a red Maltese Cross or a Silver Shield for fire and rescue and law enforcement. There is also a new flag - called a Support Flag. This flag is white with a red border and in the place of an emblem are the blue letters USA. The support flag is for anyone who wishes to show that they support our heroes, near and far. Flags are currently being sold in area stores or can be purchased at info@americanheroes.cc. |
