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Harmony pays tribute to the flag
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Published: June 15, 2009
A short essay, written by a fifth-grader, summed up the thoughts and beliefs of many of those much older than him who gathered at the Harmony town cemetery Saturday.
Nathan Harris was chosen from a number of other fifth-graders to read his essay about the meaning of the American flag at the second annual Flag Day celebration in Harmony. The observance is sponsored by the North Iredell American Legion Post 113, V-Point Ruritan Club and the Town of Harmony.
Nathan, during part of his essay, said the American flag stands for those who no longer can. "They sacrificed their lives so we can be free," he said.
Harmony fifth-graders were asked to write essays about the American flag, and those essays were judged by a panel. Nathan's was selected as the top one.
About 30 people attended the short program Saturday morning. Ronnie Williams, president of the V-Point Ruritan Club, said while many do not celebrate Flag Day, it is an important observance.
"This is an opportunity to gather and celebrate our heritage," he said.
The ceremony included presentation of the colors by North Iredell American Leigon Post 113.
Perhaps the most poignant part of the program, in addition to the words spoke by Nathan, was the burning of several tattered American flags.
The flags had flown in a number of locations, but reached the point that they needed to be destroyed.
The American Legion Post members disposed of them in the proper manner, by burning them.
Harmony Mayor John Ray Campbell said the flag should be revered as it represents some 1.3 million men and women who have died in battle during the history of the United States.
The names of 41 members of the military who are buried at the Harmony Cemetery were read, and the Woodman of the World donated small flags to adorn their graves.
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