submitted by Gail Smith
June 14 is a day that is traditionally set aside to commemorate the adoption of the American Flag which happened on June 14, 1777. On Saturday, June 14, Old Glory will get her honor due in Hoosick Falls during the Elks Flag Day Program at the Hoosick Falls American Legion on Main Street.
[private]The program will kick off at 6:30 pm with HFCS third grade Teacher Terri Burdick going through the history of the American Flag, after which Tom McMartin from Voice of a Vet will explain a very special Flag Program that has been undertaken in Hoosick Falls to honor local servicemen who are buried on foreign soil.
Adding to local history, this Flag will begin her journey that night as she is formally handed off to Patriot Guard Riders who have offered to escort her to Civil War Cemeteries in the U.S., with her first stop being at Gettysburg. Before she is through, our flag will have flown over every cemetery in the U.S. and overseas where Hoosick Falls servicemen are buried, thus giving them their honor due.
Patriotic music will be intertwined throughout the program by the Hoosick Falls Community Band and students will lead us in a couple of numbers. The Honor Guard will conclude the program with a three volley salute and Boy and Girl Scouts will participate, as usual.
To round out the evening, we will enjoy refreshments and have some fun during a Dessert and Art Auction to help raise funds to transport the Hoosick Falls Flag overseas.
World War II Veteran Reverend William Bovard has donated some of his artwork that has a local historical flair, with proceeds primarily benefiting the Flag Program but also Youth for Christ. His work, which is on display in the Hoosick Federal Credit Union in the window, includes drawings of St. Mary’s Academy, the Veterans Wall, the Civil War Monument, the Armory, some envelopes he drew cartoons on that were sent home from war. Bill is also hoping to have a drawing of the Bandstand in Wood Park finished.
Local eateries are donating some of their wonderful desserts, but we know Hoosick Falls has some of the best bakers around, so we’re asking community members to also make a donation. If you’ve got a specialty, please bring it to be auctioned. Desserts should be clearly marked so there is no question as to what they are. You can drop them off between 6 and 6:30 pm at the Legion that day or call Gail at 686-3269 to make other arrangements if you are unable to attend.
As folks are enjoying refreshments after the program, auction items can be viewed. Local legend Ron Seifert, or one of his gang, will begin auctioning at 8 pm. It’s sure to be a lot of fun![/private]