Every month something special happens on the Plaza in downtown Mount Vernon. Families, individuals, and members of local organizations gradually arrive in anticipation of what they will see, hear, remember, and learn for the first time. And at the end of each event, someone will say something like, "I didn't know that about my old friend.", or, "My neighbor did that?", or simply, "Wow". And this something special doesn't cost a thing to those present, other than a few moments of time and dedicated attention. But it is always worth it. So what is it and why does it happen?
First, the why. Franklin County has been home to many patriots over the years. Some served in combat overseas throughout generations of wars, some served stateside and accomplished remarkable things, and some gave the ultimate sacrifice - their lives - on behalf of those fighting beside them and for the rest of us waiting at home. But when they are gone from this world, what part of their stories remain with the legacies they leave behind? Do we even know their stories, the ones that defined who they became? It is likely that we do not, simply because veterans are often humble and quiet about their service in our civilian presence. We are the ones who try to make them heroes when they return, often without realizing the depth of what they have experienced and what they still carry inside. They rarely consider themselves heroes, though. Often, they tuck it all away privately while family, friends and community go on with life.
This is where that "something special" happens in our beautiful little town - what it is and what it is all about. The first Saturday of every month, we gather at the Plaza as a community to pay tribute to one of these veterans. Organized by Warrior Spirit Project and in collaboration with American Legion Post 243, a powerful story is told about the life of someone that many in the crowd thought they already knew. But then they realize there was so much more there. When able, a family member is the one to share the story, and something new is often discovered while doing the research and preparing for what to say. An opening prayer is offered, the crowd hears and learns about the special life of this veteran, and then a flag dedicated specifically to that veteran is raised in tribute, in a traditional ceremony led by local Sons of the American Legion Squadron 243. Together, we listen to the National Anthem sung by someone from the Legion family or by a local resident, and then we all cite the Pledge of Allegiance together and close in a prayer offered in gratitude.
This is how we recognize heroism on a deeper level, recognize impact, pay tribute, and keep memories alive with new perspectives for each of us individually, but also as a community. Please consider joining us for our next Raise The Flag special moment on Saturday, March 7th at 10:00am. We will be paying tribute to U.S. Army Sergeant RB Carr. He would love to know you were there to hear his story. It will be something special indeed.
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