Flag Day ceremony stirs memories of sacrifices

Councilman John Longabaugh has plenty of memories about the American flag, particularly a moment when he was presented with one at his mother's graveside years ago.

During World War II, the woman served as nurse in the U.S. Army. Receiving the flag reminded him of how much she loved the nation and her job.

In addition, Longabaugh's stepfather, who was in the Marine Corps in World War II, has been ill. His family does not expect the man, who's under hospice care, to make it to the end of year.

"I've received one flag already and will probably have another soon," he said. "Having these flags are very important because of the sacrifices they made."

Longabaugh and others honored the flag Saturday at a Flag Day ceremony at Cimarron Center in Sun City Grand, sponsored by Elks Lodge 2833.

The festivities included posting of the colors by Luke Air Force Base color guard, history of the various flags as well as a POW/MIA presentation.

Danielle Reese, a second lieutenant at Luke Air Force Base, gave the Flag Day address to the crowd of about 50 people.

"Every time I see the flag, I remind myself of those who fought for our nation and are presently serving the armed forces right now," she said.