New lamppost banners represent branches of service

BY BONNIE KAY BALDWIN
LAKE MILLS GRAPHIC
Lake Mills proudly commends their military, past and present, in many ways. One of which is to decorate their lampposts with banners (pictures and names) of the fallen and fly the American flag.
The Hometown Hero banners honor men or women who are presently serving in the military, or have been killed in action. These banners were purchased about five years ago, said Bill Clark, American Legion member.
Clark also mentioned that both these banners and flags hang/decorate our poles from Memorial Day until Veterans Day each year.
As of last week, there have been five additional banners purchased by the American Legion Otto Chose Post #235, that will soon be hung on open poles—possibly on 1st Street. These five flags represent the five branches of the military: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy.
“To qualify to have a banner for a family member killed in action or presently serving, or in memory of a volunteer firefighter, EMS, or law enforcement individual who has been killed in the line of duty, the Legion charges around $100 for a banner, if you want to make a donation,” said Clark. “A family member needs to bring forth a name, because legally, we can’t look for a name without permission.” Clark said they are sure there are military members out there in the community that should be honored, but whom they know nothing about.
If someone would like to make a donation to the American Legion or the flag and banner project, they can do so by sending it to the American Legion in care of Dave Anderson. If there are any questions, call Legion Commander Dave Anderson or Bill Clark.
 “We just want to get the word out and let people know we want to acknowledge service members; they just need to let us know. Also, what the American Legion is for, is to represent and honor all veterans of all wars. We also encourage all those who would like to join the Legion, to call either Bill or myself,” said Anderson.