Blue Ridge Elementary School welcomed several members from local veterans organizations who hosted an assembly where proper flag etiquette was taught to the school’s 2023 group of fifth graders.
Veteran Bill Stodghill led the event, instructing eager fifth graders on the symbolism of the American flag, the proper way to fold a flag, how to care for a flag, and the basic rules of respect for the flag.
After discussing the rules of handling the flag, the veterans demonstrated how to fold a flag while explaining the symbolism behind the stars and stripes. Once proper etiquette had been reviewed, the veterans took turns helping willing children learn how to properly fold and display an American flag.
Before students were allowed to go outside and raise the flag on the flagpole, students and veterans engaged in a small Q&A, with a few children volunteering stories of family members who have served. Many students have family members in the Armed Forces, and the veterans took their time listening to each student who offered up such information.
Once the students were outside at the flagpole, Gerald “Chief Mac” McMillen allowed a handful to practice raising the flag.