About 55 Medina Elementary students received a hands-on lesson in American flag history, etiquette and patriotism during a program at the Medina Community Library, “The Origins of Patriotism,” on Sept. 15.
The third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students joined teachers and volunteers for the interactive program presented by the Bandera County American Legion Honor Guard. The program was hosted by the Medina Community Library as part of its celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Students learned about the history of the U.S. flag, the U.S. Flag Code, proper flag etiquette, the history of the “Star-Spangled Banner” and traditions surrounding the flag.
The presentation included a demonstration of the proper way to fold the American flag.
Students then divided into groups and practiced folding the flag with guidance from members of the Honor Guard.
Ron Clarke, a member of the Honor Guard team, said the educational program is an extension of the group’s traditional community service.
“The Honor Guard has been effective in and around Bandera County providing the normal services an Honor Guard is known for,” Clarke said. “However, we as a group thought that developing a very interactive and fun show for all ages was something that we needed to do.”
Organizers said educational program was launched about three years ago and has continued to grow along with the Honor Guard.
It has a curriculum designed for students in kindergarten through sixth grade, as well as seventh-grade students through adults.
Clarke said the Medina students were engaged throughout the presentation.
“This group was fun and cooperative and asked a lot of questions that were curious, engaging and thoughtful,” Clarke said. “They certainly seemed to be the liveliest and most attentive. It was an excellent group!”
The Honor Guard thanked the Medina Community Library and its staff for the invitation to participate in the library’s 250th anniversary celebration, as well as Medina Elementary students and faculty for their participation.
Rick Olivarez, commander of American Legion Bandera Post 157 and a member of the Honor Guard, said the partnership demonstrates what neighboring Legion posts can accomplish by working together.
“Our posts working as a team to promote veteran awareness in Bandera County shows that sister posts can have a mutual goal and meet that goal while having fun, enjoying the camaraderie and working with the community,” Olivarez said. “Our post is proud to be a part of this mutual effort.”
Cody Anderson, commander of Lakehills American Legion Post 410, said Honor Guard members also contribute to their individual posts.
“The Honor Guard not only serves the community, but at both posts these members serve in executive roles of leadership for their respective posts,” Anderson said. “So, while we see them most often publicly in their traditional Honor Guard role, those of us at the post level rely on them as strong volunteers within our own post.”
The Bandera County American Legion Honor Guard offers the free, interactive multimedia patriotism program to businesses, organizations, clubs and community groups.
Organizations interested in scheduling a presentation can call the Honor Guard hotline at 830-529-0035.
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